U.S. beef and pork exports maintained their momentum that began in the fourth quarter of 2016 with higher year-over-year numbers in January.
Those numbers come from USDA statistics and were compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation.
Beef exports totaled almost 96,500 metric tons, 17 percent more than a year ago.
Beef exports were valued at over $515 million, 18 percent higher and the largest number ever in January.
Pork exports in January were up 21 percent in volume compared to last year and took a 26 percent jump higher in value at just over $508 million.
“The red meat industry entered 2017 with an optimistic outlook,” says Phillip Seng, USMEF Chair and CEO, “and we’re confident we can sustain that strong momentum in the international markets.”
He adds there are still challenges ahead thanks to record large production numbers trending higher.
“It’s more important than ever that we move more product out of the country by growing U.S. market share,” Seng adds.
Beef exports are growing in Asian markets, especially Japan and South Korea. Mexico remains the top export destination for U.S. pork.
