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 U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).
Beef exports reached 103,883 metric tons (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.
February beef exports to the Caribbean were the largest on record, while demand from Mexico and Central and South America continued to trend higher. Exports also increased year-over-year to Taiwan, and Korea posted an increase in export value.
“Tight beef supplies are definitely a challenge for exporters, and that situation isn’t going to change anytime soon,” USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom said. “But on a positive note, we are seeing more opportunities for underutilized 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.”
Lamb exports above year ago
U.S. lamb exports followed a strong January with another robust performance in February, climbing 11% from a year ago to 270 mt. Export value increased 18% to $1.5 million. Through February, lamb exports increased 19% from a year ago to 573 mt, with value up 34% to $3.2 million, led by growth in the Bahamas, the Leeward-Windward Islands and Canada. Exports to Mexico trended lower in volume but still climbed 26% in value to just under $600,000.
A detailed summary of the January-February export results for U.S. beef, pork and lamb, including market-specific highlights, is available from the USMEF website, usmef.org. — USMEF
