U.S. Sees Robust Red Meat Exports

November exports of U.S. red meat posted year-over-year gains across all categories, according to data from USDA and U.S. Meat Export Federation.

U.S. pork exports remained on a record pace, while beef and lamb shipments also increased substantially from November 2023. USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom explains what regions are driving that growth.

Pork exports totaled 272,141 metric tons in November, up 5 percent from a year ago. Export value increased 6 percent to just under $783 million. These results included an especially strong month for pork muscle cut exports. These increased 6 percent to 221,652 mt. Muscle cut export value was the third highest on record at $671.4 million. Export value per head slaughtered was $72.20 in November, up 9 percent from a year ago and the highest since April.

“The drivers are the same as they have been – Mexico and Latin America are, without a doubt, leading the way,” Halstrom says. “The total export value for Mexico will be topping $2.5 billion this year. This has doubled over the past five years. So beyond just Mexico, Central America and Colombia have already set annual records. And you look at the Caribbean and Oceana, Australia, New Zealand, when December data becomes available, (there) will be record levels in those countries as well.”

November beef exports increased 10 percent year-over-year to 109,288 mt, while value climbed 11 percent to $872.7 million. Export value per head of fed slaughter equated to $428.70 in November, up 13 percent from a year ago and the highest since June.

Korea – a big month, China and Taiwan as well. So Asia continues to be strong, and Japan was steady for the month of November. So Asia continues to rebound, especially at the foodservice level, very
encouraged by that,” Halstrom says. “And you look at Latin America, Mexico in particular, also continues to be strong.”