Trade barriers weigh on beef while pork stays strong
July export data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), showed contrasting results for pork and beef. Pork shipments held close to last year’s pace, while beef exports dropped to a five-year low.
Pork exports reached 238,922 metric tons, just 1% lower than a year ago, with values down 4% to $680.9 million. Strong demand in Mexico, Central America, and South America supported results, even as prices for variety meats fell due to Chinese tariffs.
Mexico remained the top pork market with shipments of 92,524 metric tons, valued at $228.4 million. Central America posted record growth, with July exports up 35% year-over-year. Colombia also expanded purchases, with volumes rising 15%. Other markets such as Japan, the Caribbean, and ASEAN countries saw steady or improved performance.
Through the first seven months of 2025, pork exports were 4% below last year’s record levels in both volume and value. However, per-head values remained strong at $66.31, while exports accounted for 30.7% of total U.S. production in July.
Beef exports, however, were significantly lower. July totals dropped 19% to 89,579 metric tons, valued at $752.5 million. Shipments to China nearly halted after registrations for most U.S. plants expired in March, leaving exporters with minimal access.
Although beef exports to Korea, the Caribbean, and South America grew, overall trade remained challenged. U.S. beef accounted for just 11.9% of production in July, compared with 14% last year.
Despite trade headwinds, pork continues to show resilience in the Western Hemisphere, while restoring market access for beef in China remains a top priority.
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