February exports of U.S. pork were moderately lower than a year ago, despite continued success in Mexico and Central America, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). February beef exports were also below last year after trending higher in January. USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom said Latin America showed continued strong demand for U.S. pork.
At the same time, Halstrom said stalled beef facility registrations by China started to impact beef export numbers.
China announced additional retaliatory duties of 34%, to take effect April 10. This will create further obstacles for U.S. pork and beef exports to China. Halstrom said new U.S. tariffs have also created uncertainty for buyers of U.S. red meat in other destinations, where retaliation could impact market access and prices.
For more information, visit usmef.org.
