With a remarkably low number of COVID-19 cases in 2020, Taiwan remains a leading destination for U.S. beef exports. According to U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) Senior Vice President for the Asia Pacific, Joel Haggard, this is despite a slow start to 2021.
According to USMEF, Taiwan has taken a record volume of nearly 64,000 metric tons (mt) valued at more than $550 million. After the slow start to the year, exports picked up significantly in May, up more than 40% from a year ago in volume (5,648 mt) and 60% higher in value ($52.2 million).
Despite the ongoing COVID-related challenges, Haggard expects Taiwan’s demand for U.S. beef to remain strong in the second half of the year, especially with dining restrictions expected to be eased later this month.