New Market Access for U.S. Red Meat

There’s been no shortage of conversation around beef trade lately, particularly when it comes to imports. But today, let’s flip that conversation around and talk exports, because U.S. beef and pork just gained wider access to Nigeria.

According to the U.S. Meat Export Federation, Nigeria previously accepted only a limited number of processed meat products. But USDA’s Export Library now says U.S. red meat can be shipped there unless it is specifically excluded.

That means beef cuts and nearly all pork cuts are now eligible. The exceptions include beef and pork offal, bone-in hams, along with smoked, dried and cured beef and pork products.

And this is a big market. Nigeria has a population of more than 240 million and is the third-largest economy in Africa.

USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom calls the expanded access an important breakthrough, while acknowledging it will take time to gain a foothold in Nigerian retail and foodservice.

For the U.S. red meat industry, USMEF says it’s a market with strong long-term potential.