Despite Weaker Shipments, U.S. Beef Export Values Increase

DENVER, CO – Though the beef export market for U.S. producers was softer in April, exports achieved outstanding growth in Japan. Thanks in part to reduced tariffs under a U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement, and the implementation during late-March of the U.S. – China Phase One Economic and Trade Agreement. According to the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), with lower domestic slaughter numbers, the value per head of exported beef increased 19 percent, averaging $363.35 per head in April. For the month, exports accounted for 14.4 percent of total beef production – an increase of .6 percent while muscle cuts also crept higher (up .7 percent) to 11.9 percent.
(SOURCE: U.S. Meat Export Federation)