The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) is highlighting the pork exports for March, as well as the value of beef variety meats.
According to USMEF, “March exports of U.S. pork were among the largest on record, concluding a very strong first quarter, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).”
Pork exports in March were up 6% from a year ago, which is the largest in five years and the third largest on record. Exports of pork to leading markets like Mexico, Japan, Central America, the Dominican Republic, the Philippines and Taiwan increased in March.
USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom said, “The sustained momentum for U.S. pork exports is impressive in the Western Hemisphere, but it is also encouraging to see demand climbing in key Asian markets, led by a welcome rebound in Japan.”
On the value of beef variety meats, USMEF highlighted that “For the third time in four months, beef variety meat value reaches a new high.”
Beef exports, while down 11% from a year ago, March exports of variety meats were up 24% from a year ago and according to USMEF, “the largest since 2017. Variety meat export value increased 50% to $135.6 million, the highest on record.”
Halstrom said, “On the beef side, while China has now been absent for more than year, the U.S. industry is making strides in other markets. The supply situation makes it difficult to grow export volumes, but exports are commanding strong prices. Expanding beef variety meat demand is especially critical, as this makes such a key contribution to the value of every animal.”
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.