One Year Removed from A/H1N1 Influenza Scare
US - In May 2009, the US pork industry had just begun to deal with the trade repercussions of A/H1N1 influenza. One of the greatest areas of concern was Mexico, where misinformation about the disease was fairly widespread and was placing consumer demand for pork in serious jeopardy.
19 May 2010
2 minute read
But the pork industry worked closely with trade and public health officials to educate consumers about A-H1N1 and address any unfounded concerns that associated the disease with pork consumption.
As a result of these efforts, any decline in Mexico’s demand for US pork was very temporary. In fact, US pork exports recovered by mid-summer and went on to set an all-time annual record in Mexico.
This strong momentum has continued in 2010, with pork/pork variety meat exports up another 7 per cent in volume (to 324 million pounds) and 26 per cent in value (to $258 million) in the first quarter of the year. Muscle cut export growth (primarily hams) has been even more impressive – up 24 per cent in volume (to more than 221 million pounds) and 45 per cent in value (to $195 million) over the record pace of 2009.
In this audio report, Chad Russell, USMEF regional director for Mexico, Central America and the Dominican Republic, reflects on last year’s A-H1N1 situation and the successful marketing efforts that have lifted US pork demand in Mexico to record levels.
You cn listen to Chad Russell's discussion on pork exports to Mexico by clicking here.
