February a strong month for US beef export value

Beef export volume was slightly lower year-over-year, but export value climbed by 10%, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the US Meat Export Federation (USMEF).

Beef exports reached 103,883 mt in February, down 1% from a year ago, but export value increased 10% to $830.4 million. January-February exports were also down 1% to 203,647 mt, with export value climbing 9% to $1.59 billion. 

“Tight beef supplies are definitely a challenge for exporters, and that situation isn’t going to change anytime soon,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “But on a positive note, we are seeing more opportunities for underutilised beef cuts, including the round, shoulder clod and variety meat, in the global marketplace.”

“Demand is strong throughout the Western Hemisphere and the foodservice and hospitality sectors are finally gaining some momentum in key Asian markets such as Korea, where the post-COVID recovery has been slower than anticipated,” he continued.