Jason Vance
JVance@cherryroad.com

Despite currency challenges and political hurdles, global demand for U.S. beef and pork remains strong, according to Dan Halstrom, president and CEO of the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).

Halstrom said U.S. pork exports are down about three percent from last year’s record pace but continue to post solid results, driven largely by growth in Latin America. Mexico has emerged as a particularly strong market, with Central America also showing significant gains. Key Asian destinations such as Japan and South Korea continue to provide stable demand.

“Even with headwinds like a strong U.S. dollar, we’re still seeing very good demand for U.S. beef and pork globally,” Halstrom said.

Beef exports tell a more mixed story. Overall exports are down about 10 percent year over year, but Halstrom emphasized that the decline is largely tied to disruptions in China rather than weakening demand. Many U.S. beef establishments remain unlisted in China’s plant registry, limiting access to the market.

“This is not a demand issue — it’s a political issue,” Halstrom said, noting that China represented approximately $1.6 billion in beef sales last year. Large Chinese retailers, including Sam’s Club, continue to seek U.S. beef, reinforcing the strength of consumer demand.

Outside of China, U.S. beef exports are performing well. South Korea is currently the largest export value market for U.S. beef, followed closely by Japan. Latin American markets are also expanding on the beef side, particularly Central America and Chile.

Tight cattle supplies in the United States have created additional challenges, but Halstrom said exports remain a critical part of maximizing carcass value. While popular domestic cuts such as middle meats are rarely exported, items like rounds, chuck rolls and variety meats rely heavily on international markets.

Exports contribute more than $400 per head in added value to U.S. cattle, Halstrom said, underscoring their importance to producer profitability.

Halstrom also highlighted the importance of existing free trade agreements in sustaining export momentum. The majority of U.S. meat exports flow to countries with established agreements, including Mexico, Canada, Colombia and Central American nations.

“Our strategy is to grow and defend those existing free trade markets,” he said. “Keeping what you have is just as important as expanding.”

Looking ahead, Halstrom said global demand for U.S. beef and pork is expected to remain strong, particularly as middle-class populations expand in developing markets. Countries such as Mexico and Guatemala are purchasing higher-value products at levels that would have been unthinkable a decade ago.

“They’re willing to pay for quality today,” Halstrom said. “If we can resolve the China situation, the industry is in a very good position moving forward.”