US August pork export highlights led by value record in Mexico – USMEF

US pork exports to Mexico continued to drive toward a new annual record in August. Volume increased 12.5% year-over-year to 91,297 mt, while export value was up 9% to a record-high $211.7 million, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the US Meat Export Federation (USMEF). 

Through August, exports to Mexico topped last year’s record pace by 14%, reaching 705,312 mt, while export value climbed 18% to $1.47 billion. This includes a sharp increase in pork variety meat exports, which soared by 45% in volume (104,580 mt) and 43% in value ($189.6 million).

Demand for US pork also trended higher in the Dominican Republic, where August exports increased 26% from a year ago to 6,215 mt, valued at $17.9 million (up 28%). Through August, exports to the DR are on a record pace at 66,733 mt, up 26% from a year ago, valued at $181.3 million (up 34%). US pork faces increasing competition in the DR from the United Kingdom, Canada, the European Union and a few pork establishments in Brazil. However, the US holds the advantage of zero-duty access through CAFTA-DR and remains the market’s dominant supplier with 94% market share. 

August pork exports to Central America increased 16.5% from a year ago to 8,726 mt, while value climbed 23% to $26 million. Through August, exports to the region increased 7% year-over-year to 79,554 mt, valued at $229.2 million (up 13%). Export growth was led by Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. Shipments to leading market Honduras increased only slightly in volume (30,342 mt, up 1%) but posted a 17% increase in value ($76.5 million).