Strong demand lifts March pork exports and closes a record first quarter
March proved to be an important month for the U.S. pork industry as exports reached one of its highest levels on record. Data released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation showed that strong overseas demand supported both export volume and value.
Total U.S. pork exports in March reached 285,567 metric tons. This marked a 6% increase compared to the same month last year and was the third largest March export volume ever recorded.
It also represented the largest monthly pork shipment in the past five years. Export value also grew, rising 4 percent to $803.2 million, making it the second highest March value on record.
Several international markets played a major role in this growth. Pork shipments increased to Mexico, which remained the leading destination for U.S. pork. Exports also rose to Japan, Central America, the Dominican Republic, the Philippines, and Taiwan.
Shipments to South Korea and Canada remained steady. This broad demand helped push export value per hog slaughtered to $72.93, ranking among the highest levels ever achieved.
The strong March performance helped close a very successful first quarter for U.S. pork producers. During the first three months of the year, pork exports totaled 778,939 metric tons. This was 3 percent higher than last year. Export value for the quarter reached $2.17 billion, also up 3 percent. Exports to Mexico and Central America are currently on a record pace.
“The sustained momentum for U.S. pork exports is impressive in the Western Hemisphere, but it is also encouraging to see demand climbing in key Asian markets, led by a welcome rebound in Japan,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom.
Industry leaders noted that continued demand in nearby markets and improving interest from Asia were key drivers. The strong results highlight the importance of international trade for U.S. pork producers and show how global markets contribute to farm income and overall industry stability.
These results demonstrate the growing role of exports in supporting the U.S. pork sector and underline the value of maintaining strong trade relationships worldwide.
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