12 July 2024

2 minute read

By: Global Ag Media

North America

Although pork export volume to leading market Mexico slowed in May following record-large April shipments, export value still increased and 2024 demand remains on a record pace, according to data released by USDA and compiled by USMEF. May exports to Mexico totaled 91,338 mt, down 6% from a year ago, but value was 2% higher at $201.9 million. January-May exports to Mexico reached 480,193 mt, up 7% from a year ago, while value increased 14% to $1.02 billion.

While Mexico continues to shine as a destination for hams and other pork cuts for further processing, the US industry has made impressive inroads in the country’s rapidly growing retail and foodservice sectors, with per-capita pork consumption continuing to expand. Mexico is also a major outlet for US pork variety meat, including for taco applications.

Pork exports to Korea posted another robust performance in May, totaling 22,354 mt. This was up 6% from a year ago, while value increased 8% to $78.9 million. Through May, exports to Korea climbed 35% above last year’s pace to 118,092 mt, while value soared 40% to $395.4 million. The US industry continues to capitalise on Korean consumers’ growing appetite for convenient, easy-to-prepare entrées and snacks, while US pork is also gaining traction in the foodservice sector.

Despite lower shipments to leading market Honduras, May pork exports to Central America increased 11% from a year ago to 11,711 mt, while export value climbed 26% to $37.8 million. May exports to Costa Rica nearly tripled from a year ago, while also gaining strength in Guatemala and El Salvador. January-May exports to the region increased 25% from a year ago to 64,161 mt, while export value soared 35% above last year’s record pace to $196.8 million.