DENVER – Central and South America are among 2011’s most rapid-growth regions for US meat exports. US beef and pork exports have already achieved new annual records with two months left of this year still to be posted. Even stronger results are expected next year by the US Meat Export Federation, thanks, in part, to recently ratified trade agreements with Colombia and Panama.

US pork sold in Central and South America in 2011, led by surging exports to Chile, totaled approximately 128 million lbs. – up 23 percent over 2010 – valued at nearly $150 million, an increase of 33 percent. Led by strong growth to Chile, Peru and Guatemala, US beef exports to this region were up 51 percent totaling more than 47 million lbs. and valued at $66.3 million, a 74 percent increase.