DENVER — US pork export volume in April achieved gains in a wide range of markets, according to data collected by the US Meat Export Federation (USMEF) from the US Department of Agriculture.

Pork export volume was up 15% from a year ago to 243,789 tonnes in April, while export value reached $660.1 million, up 10% compared to the same month in 2022.

Through the first four months of the year, total pork exports increased 14% to 960,480 tonnes and valued at $2.62 billion up 13%.

“International demand continues to be a positive for the entire pork supply chain,” said Dan Halstrom, president and chief executive officer for USMEF. “While Mexico remains a star performer for US pork, it’s really encouraging to see growth in many markets. Latin American demand has remained strong while the momentum for US pork into the Asia Pacific region has also been increasing. This is critical for maximizing carcass value and generating revenue for an industry that is facing difficult economic conditions.” 

In April, US pork exports to Mexico remained on record pace for 2023 and proved to be another strong month at 80,214 tonnes, up 9% from 2022. US pork exports for the month were valued at $149.6 million, which was up 7% compared to last year.

US pork export volume also increased to South Korea, Japan, China/Hong Kong, the Philippines, Australia and Taiwan.

Meanwhile, beef exports maintained a slow pace in 2023.

Total beef exports for the month of April were 111,416 tonnes with export volume down 10% from a year ago. The export value of beef exports for the month was $859.5 million, a decrease of 18%.

Through the first four months of 2023, total beef exports decreased by 8% to 437,910 tonnes and valued at $3.22 billion down 21%.

“With US beef supplies tightening, it’s difficult to keep pace with the remarkable export totals posted in the first half of 2022, but exports continue to account for a similar share of production as last year’s record,” Halstrom said. “The rebound in travel and tourism – which is now gaining momentum in Asia – and related foodservice opportunities continue to support beef demand. In some countries we have also seen a recent easing of the inflationary pressure on consumers’ discretionary income.”

Another key factor for both beef and pork exports going forward will be West Coast port terminal operators reaching a contract agreement with longshoreman.

“While there has been no formal strike or lockout, sporadic work stoppages on the West Coast are a major concern for exporters and their international customers,” Halstrom said. “This is especially true for companies shipping chilled beef or pork to Asia. For that business, reliability and timeliness are paramount.”

Beef exports to China/Hong Kong in April, topped 21,235 tonnes, an 8% decrease from 2022. Export value is also at $186 million, down 13%.

Pork exports to Japan through April were at 33,527 tonnes, down 3%, with value slipping 8% to $131.5 million.

April exports of US lamb muscle cuts totaled 153 tonnes, down 13%, with export value falling 20% to $1 million.