LUBBOCK, Texas (RFD NEWS) — U.S. pork exports strengthened in October, posting their largest monthly totals since March and signaling renewed momentum for global demand, according to USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Pork shipments reached 264,657 metric tons, up 5 percent from a year ago, with export value rising 7 percent to $762.1 million.
Mexico led the advance, delivering record-large shipments and anchoring gains across Central America, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines. Additional records were set in Honduras and Guatemala. Through the first 10 months of 2025, pork exports totaled 2.43 million metric tons, just 2 percent below last year’s record pace, with China remaining the primary drag due to retaliatory duties on U.S. pork variety meats.
Beef exports also showed improvement. October shipments totaled 93,448 metric tons, down 11 percent year over year but the strongest volume since June and sharply higher than September. Export gains to Japan, Taiwan, Canada, ASEAN markets, and Colombia partially offset continued restrictions in China. Excluding China, beef exports were only modestly lower year-to-date.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong pork demand and improving beef exports outside China support protein markets despite ongoing trade barriers.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Weskan Grain CEO Will Bramblett discusses the antitrust lawsuit filed by grain farmers and agribusinesses, and its potential implications on rail competition and market access.
February 17, 2026 01:41 PM
·
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney shares insight into Canada’s trade push in Mexico and what it could signal for agriculture and the USMCA moving forward.
February 17, 2026 01:23 PM
·
Lawmakers request information from CEO Scott Stump over sponsorship concerns and potential implications for the organization’s nonprofit status.
February 17, 2026 12:28 PM
·
Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law reviews key highlights from the House Agriculture Committee’s latest farm bill proposal.
February 17, 2026 12:16 PM
·
Lawmakers from Texas and Tennessee outline priorities for USMCA renegotiations, focusing on tariffs, China trade concerns, beef prices, and stability for U.S. agriculture.
February 17, 2026 12:14 PM
·
The Action Aims to Lower Food Costs for Consumers and Strengthen the Supply Chain
February 17, 2026 11:09 AM
