Red meat exports mixed to start 2026

U.S. red meat exports were mixed in January, with pork exports trending higher year-over-year and beef trending lower according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Pork exports were led by another outstanding performance from the leading market, Mexico. USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom said that, in addition to Mexico, exports were larger year-over-year to Japan, South Korea, Canada, Central America, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, the ASEAN region, and Taiwan.

Use Up/Down Arrow keys to increase or decrease volume.

Even though January beef exports were lower than a year ago due to the prolonged lockout in China, export value per head of fed slaughter was more than $415 – the highest since March and reflecting solid demand in other markets. USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom said beef variety meats were a major bright spot, with export value topping the previous monthly high reached in December.

Use Up/Down Arrow keys to increase or decrease volume.

Halstrom said Taiwan was particularly strong for beef demand among the Asian countries.