American pork, beef and lamb exports are trending higher to start the new year as overseas consumers look to get their hands on more U.S. product.
According to USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation, January pork exports rose 6% by volume (topping 251,000 metric tons) and by value (reaching $682.2 million) over the same month in 2023.
USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom said it was “especially gratifying” to see markets other than Mexico purchasing more pork.
Beef exports slipped 1% to just under 100,000 metric tons, but the value of the exports jumped 9% to $763.8 million on gains in the sales of variety meats. Halstrom said USMEF is expecting “another challenging year in terms of beef supply availability” but sees the growth in export value as a “positive sign.”
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“There is also more optimism in Asia’s food service sector, especially in Korea. Combined with the recent strength we’ve seen in the Western Hemisphere, this bodes well for beef demand in the coming year,” he said. “January was also an excellent month for beef variety meat exports, which are especially important for maximizing the value of every animal.”
Lamb shipments were also higher. Volume increased 28% over January 2023, reaching the highest level since March. The value of U.S. lamb exports rose 53% to $1.7 million year over year.
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