By Jamie Martin
New export figures from the USDA and USMEF highlighted the mixed outlook for U.S. livestock trade in July. Pork exports held steady compared with last year, while beef exports declined sharply.
Pork shipments totaled 238,922 metric tons, down just 1%, while value slipped 4% to $680.9 million. Mexico remained the largest market, taking over 92,000 metric tons in July. Central America delivered record growth, up 35% in volume, while Colombia also boosted purchases by 15%. Stronger shipments to Japan, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia added to the positive trend.
From January to July, U.S. pork exports reached 1.69 million metric tons, 4% below last year, with export value at $4.8 billion. Exports accounted for 30.7% of July’s pork production, showing their importance to the sector.
Beef exports told a different story. Shipments dropped 19% to 89,579 metric tons, the lowest in five years, with value falling 17% to $752.5 million. Limited access to China, due to expired plant registrations and suspensions, left the market largely closed.
Some bright spots included higher beef exports to South Korea, the Caribbean, and South America. Still, overall performance lagged, with exports accounting for just 11.9% of July beef production.
Industry leaders stressed that resolving trade access with China is critical for beef. Meanwhile, pork markets in the Western Hemisphere continue to drive growth and provide stability despite global uncertainty.
Photo Credit: istock-123ducu
Categories: National