The value of U.S. beef exports topped $900 million in May, the highest since June 2023, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).
May beef exports totaled 110,133 metric tons (mt), down 5% from a year ago but the second largest of 2024. Beef export value reached $902.4 million in May, 3% above last year and the highest in 11 months. Exports trended higher year over year to Japan, Mexico, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations region, the Middle East, the Caribbean and Central America—which included a record month for Guatemala. May export value was also higher for Taiwan.
For January through May, beef exports followed a similar trend, increasing 5% year-over-year in value to $4.29 billion, despite a 4% decline in volume (533,578 mt).
“It has been encouraging to see demand stabilize in Japan, where U.S. beef certainly faces significant headwinds,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “The tourism boom has provided a much-needed lift for Japan’s foodservice sector, and it is a source of optimism for buyers and importers. Taiwan and the ASEAN region were also bright spots for U.S. beef in May, along with Western Hemisphere markets such as Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean.”
May lamb exports trend higher
May exports of U.S. lamb totaled 251 mt, up 78% from the low year-ago volume, while export value was up 66% to $1.3 million. For January through May, lamb exports increased 11% from a year ago to 1,294 mt, while value climbed 25% to $7.2 million. Export growth was driven primarily by the Caribbean, Mexico and Canada, but shipments also increased to the Philippines and Taiwan. — USMEF
