Although U.S. beef exports were slightly lower in volume in June, export value was higher than a year ago. USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom said U.S. beef exports are benefiting from strong demand in countries like Taiwan and parts of Latin America. Growing demand for less-used cuts is helping expand beyond the Chinese market and diversify U.S. beef.
Halstrom said pork exports to Mexico have been low due to pseudorabies-related restrictions introduced in May. With these restrictions lifted, exports returned to normal in July, and Mexico continues to be a dominant player on the muscle cut side.
As USMEF’s July 17th report noted, Mexico’s removal of pseudorabies-related restrictions opened up trade not only for new production but also for pipeline product that had backed up while the restrictions were in place. This was a massive win for the industry, given that Mexico is the U.S.’s second-largest market for variety meats.
