The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) recently held its second U.S. Red Meat Symposium in Mexico City, Mexico, enabling U.S. exporters to meet face-to-face with prospective buyers from throughout Mexico.
The symposium included an examination of Mexico’s economic and political climate and provided opportunities for buyers to connect with U.S. farmers and ranchers. A delegation of 18 producers and other industry leaders participated in the symposium and in market tours.
Increasingly important to the U.S. red meat industry, Mexico is the leading destination for U.S. pork, setting records in each of the past five years. It is also a growing market for U.S. beef and lamb. New trade and product opportunities continue to emerge, which is why USMEF launched the first symposium in 2024, rather than rely on traditional industry trade shows.
“We decided to create our own trade event. This way, if potential buyers are at the symposium, it’s because we invited them. We know the kind of company they are and the amount of product that they’re buying,” said Gerardo Rodriguez, USMEF regional director for Mexico and Central America. “Participating exporters also have their product showcased and can meet buyers from all over the country: Chihuahua, Guadalajara, Tijuana, Mexicali, Cancun, Veracruz and Monterrey.”
The U.S. Red Meat Symposium was made possible with support from USDA, the National Pork Board, the Beef Checkoff Program and Nebraska Beef Council. — USMEF
