While well below the record-large volume and value posted in May 2022, beef exports improved from April and were the second largest (behind March) of 2023, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).
Beef exports totaled 116,159 metric tons (mt), down 14% from the May 2022 record but up 4% from the previous month. Export value was $874.7 million, down 19% year-over-year but 2% above April. May exports strengthened to Mexico, Taiwan and South Africa, and export value to Canada was the highest innearly eight years. Beef variety meat exports were the largest in 12 months at just under 27,000 mt.
For January through May, beef and beef variety exports were down 10% to 554,069 mt, valued at $4.09 billion (down 21%).
“U.S. beef exports face considerable headwinds in 2023, on both the supply and demand side, especially when compared to last year’s massive totals,” said Dan Halstrom, USMEF president and CEO. “To address tighter beef supplies, USMEF has heightened efforts to showcase underutilized cuts, even in our well-established markets. It’s also encouraging to see beef variety meat exports maintain a strong pace, as this is essential for maximizing carcass value.”
Lamb exports trend lower
May exports of U.S. lamb muscle cuts totaled 141 mt, down 32% from a year ago and the lowest volume of 2023. Export value was $772,409, down 17%. May exports declined to most major destinations but increased to the Bahamas. For January through May, exports remained 9% above last year’s pace at 958 mt, valued at $5.5 million (up 5%).
A detailed summary of the January-May export results for U.S. beef, pork and lamb, including market-specific highlights, is available at usmef.org. — USMEF
