With new trade agreements and frameworks emerging across Southeast Asia, the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) is closely monitoring fresh opportunities for U.S. beef and pork exports. USMEF President and CEO Dan Hallstrom recently shared insights on the potential impact these agreements could have across several key markets in the region.
Starting with Malaysia, Hallstrom noted that the U.S. meat industry has historically faced a number of non-tariff trade barriers, limiting access for American products. However, he expressed optimism that the latest trade developments signal a turning point.
“We’re excited to see some of those barriers eliminated,” Hallstrom said. “U.S. pork has made strides in recent years in Malaysia and there’s room for further growth. But I think the larger potential is for U.S. beef.”
In Vietnam, Hallstrom pointed out that tariff relief will be essential to strengthen U.S. competitiveness in the marketplace.
“Relief on tariffs is going to be mandatory so we can compete on a level playing field. So hopefully this is the first step in obtaining that,” he explained.
Thailand presents similar challenges, with prohibitively high tariff rates that have constrained export potential. Nonetheless, ongoing trade discussions are creating hope for future progress in reducing barriers for both beef and pork.
Turning to Cambodia, Hallstrom described it as a smaller but promising beef market, with new commitments toward duty-free access representing a positive development for U.S. exporters.
“It won’t be a big market, but honestly, in the whole Southeast Asia region, you add all these markets together, it is significant,” Hallstrom said.
Overall, the USMEF views these trade agreements as a major step toward expanding U.S. agricultural exports and enhancing America’s presence in the growing Southeast Asian protein market. By reducing tariffs and easing trade restrictions, these frameworks could open the door to stronger partnerships and long-term growth for U.S. beef and pork producers.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.