Led by South Korea, Japan, Taiwan and Latin America markets, July beef exports climbed 12% in volume to 116,575 mt, valued at $722 million – up 16% from a year ago and just slightly below the May 2018 record.
With China being by far the world's largest pork-producing and pork-consuming country, ASF's entry into China is certainly an issue of major concern for China's massive pork industry.
Pork exports to the China/Hong Kong region were already projected to be lower in 2018 due to China's rising hog production, but the additional 25% tariff imposed on April 2 has intensified this trend.
First-half exports to Japan were up 6% from a year ago in volume, while value increased 12% to $1.02 billion. First-half exports to Korea climbed 36%, valued at $802.1 million – up 52% from last year’s record pace.
Strong June results capped a huge first half of 2018 for U.S. beef exports. June pork exports were lower than a year ago for the second consecutive month, but first-half volume and value are ahead of last year’s pace.
U.S. beef and pork regained access to South Africa in 2016. South Africa ranks as the second-largest destination for U.S. beef livers. Pork exports have been slower.
U.S. beef exports set a new value record in May while also increasing significantly year-over-year in volume, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).
U.S. pork and beef industry leaders say face to face interactions, with leaders from the entire supply chain help communicate the importance and value of U.S. meat products.
Despite trade obstacles, the U.S. pork industry will vigorously defend its share of Mexico's growing pork market and continue to pursue new opportunities for U.S. pork products in Mexico.
Mexico’s chief NAFTA negotiator and Canada’s top agricultural official say their countries remain committed to completing the North American Free Trade Agreement renegotiations.
