2019 U.S. Pork Exports Achieve Record-Breaking Status

DENVER, CO – Surging demand from China along with record-setting performances in Latin America and Oceania bolstered U.S. pork exports in 2019, driving exports to record levels, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Through November, pork export volume was 7 percent ahead of the previous year’s pace at 2.39 million metric tons (mt), while value increased 6 percent to $6.19 billion. Pork export value averaged $52.24 per head slaughtered, up 2 percent year-over-year. Although still saddled by China’s retaliatory duties, pork exports to China/Hong Kong were up 71 percent from 2018 in volume (554,789 mt) and 49 percent higher in value ($1.18 million). With December results still to be compiled, exports to the region already exceeded the full-year totals of 2018.