According to the latest USDA trade data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation, September beef exports topped 81,000 metric tons, up 1% from a year ago. Export value climbed 8% to more than $712 million. Strong demand from Taiwan led the way, with additional gains reported in South Korea and throughout the Caribbean.
Beef export value also improved in Japan, the Middle East, and South America. Through the first nine months of the year, beef export value held steady at just over $7 billion, even as export volume slipped 6%. USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom says consumers around the world continue to prioritize high-quality protein despite ongoing pressure on household budgets, helping support demand for U.S. beef.
Meanwhile, pork exports were down for the fifth straight month. September shipments declined 7.5% to just over 216,000 metric tons, while export value fell 13.5% to $591 million. Bright spots for pork included record or near-record shipments to Central America, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba.
However, lower sales to Mexico, China, and other key markets weighed on overall performance. Halstrom says lower global hog prices, strong foreign production, and increased competition from Brazil and Spain continue to challenge U.S. pork exports.
Audio Reporting by Elizabeth Sanders for Southeast AgNet.