USMEF: US beef exports outperform pork in September

Closing the third quarter on a positive note, US beef exports increased in volume in September slightly year over year, while value rose 8%, according to data released by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and compiled by the US Meat Export Federation (USMEF). However, US pork exports fell below year-ago levels for the fifth consecutive month, partly due to a sharp decline in variety meat shipments.

In total, September beef exports reached 81,310 tonnes, up 1% from 2025, and value amounted to $712.4 million. Growth was led by continued robust performance in Taiwan and year-over-year gains in South Korea and the Caribbean.

USMEF noted that value increased to Japan, the Middle East and South America as well despite lower volumes. Meanwhile, shipments to Mexico, Canada and Central America dropped in terms of volume and value in September.

As last year’s beef exports to China were minimal, performance in 2026 increased slightly but remained below the levels seen in previous years when US beef had relatively strong access to the market.

“Beef exports were once again encouraging in September, as global customers continue to show a powerful and loyal appetite for US beef,” said Dan Halstrom, USMEF president and chief executive officer. “While consumers everywhere are feeling the pinch of higher household expenses, they still prioritize high-quality protein in their daily diet. The US beef industry is well-positioned to meet this need, providing the consistent value that consumers expect, in a wide range of markets. Economic situations in those markets also vary widely. For example, US beef is certainly benefiting from Taiwan’s strong economic performance.”