November pork shipments remained solid with strong demand across key markets
U.S. pork exports continued to show strength in November, even though total volumes declined slightly compared to the previous year. According to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation, pork shipments remained among the strongest months recorded in 2025, highlighting steady global demand for U.S. pork.
In November, total U.S. pork exports reached 254,085 metric tons. While this was lower than the unusually large volume reported one year earlier, it still ranked as the third-highest monthly total of the year. Export value also remained strong at $720.8 million, reflecting continued buyer interest in major international markets.
“The pork export numbers continue to be impressive, with broad-based growth mostly offsetting the obstacles in China,” said Dan Halstrom, USMEF president and CEO. “It was especially gratifying to see per-head export value topping $70 in November, which is excellent news for U.S. producers and for the entire pork supply chain.”
Mexico remained the leading destination for U.S. pork and continued at a record pace. Exports to Mexico increased compared to last year, while shipments to Central America also set new annual records. Other markets showing year-over-year growth included South Korea, the Dominican Republic, and Guatemala. These gains helped offset reduced exports to China, Japan, Canada, and Colombia.
From January through November, U.S. pork exports totaled 2.68 million metric tons, only slightly below the record pace set in 2024. Export value during this period reached $7.65 billion. Much of the overall decline was linked to lower shipments of variety meats to China, where retaliatory duties continue to limit trade. In contrast, exports of pork muscle cuts were nearly equal to last year’s record levels in both volume and value.
Export value per hog slaughtered remained a positive indicator for the industry. In November, pork export value per head exceeded $70, reflecting strong returns for producers. The year-to-date average stayed close to last year’s record, showing that exports continue to play an important role in supporting farm income.
“With each day U.S. beef is locked out of the world’s largest import market, our industry misses out on millions of dollars and our competitors reap the benefits,” said Halstrom. “It’s also frustrating that this impasse overshadows the fact that global demand for U.S. beef remains resilient, even in the face of tight supplies.”
Overall, U.S. pork exports remain resilient despite trade challenges. Strong demand from Mexico and other key markets continues to support the swine industry and provide stability for the broader pork supply chain.
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