Record Value for Mexico Fuels August Pork Exports

August exports of U.S. pork were steady year-over-year, led by another tremendous performance in Mexico, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Shipments totaled 226,519 metric tons (mt) in August, while export value fell 1.5% to just under $650 million. Exports to leading market Mexico remained on a record pace and set a value record in August at $211.7 million.

In this audio report, USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom discusses U.S. pork’s remarkable growth in Mexico but notes that demand is also climbing in other Western Hemisphere destinations and the U.S. industry is achieving gains in markets such as Taiwan and Australia. He is also encouraged by the positive August results in Japan.

Through the first eight months of 2023, pork exports were 11% above last year’s pace at 1.91 million mt, valued at $5.32 billion (up 9%).

August beef exports were well below the large totals posted a year ago but showed improvement over July results. Exports totaled 109,000 mt, down 19% from last year – when export volume was the second highest on record – but a 6% increase over July. Export value was $884 million, down 15% year-over-year but 9% above July.

Beef exports to Mexico continued to trend higher in August and Central America had an excellent month, led by Guatemala. Exports to leading markets South Korea and Japan were well below last year, but improved over July. Halstrom says lack of consumer confidence in Asia continues to be a significant headwind for the region’s foodservice sector.

For January through August, beef exports trailed last year’s record pace by 12% in volume (881,343 mt) and 19% in value ($6.69 billion).

Source: USMEF