October Pork Exports Surge as Beef Shows Recovery

Strong pork demand and improving beef exports outside China support protein markets despite ongoing trade barriers.

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
Related Stories
The National Pork Board recognized John Parker for more than 40 years of advocacy and leadership.
Trade disputes can quickly reduce demand for key crops.
Seafood producers gain expanded access to USDA support programs.
Higher fuel costs are raising grain shipping expenses. RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney discusses how energy market disruptions are impacting farmers in new ways as the War in Iran continues.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller joins us with an update on the most recent case of New World screwworm 90 miles from the U.S. Southern border.
Variety meat demand is helping offset weaker beef exports.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Strong ethanol exports support long-term growth in corn demand.
Jake Charleston from Specialty Risk Insurance Agency recapped an Oklahoma auctioneer contest and recent industry events, showing how stakeholder feedback helps insurers gauge market conditions and risk management needs.
Cattle-on-Feed is down on the year in the USDA’s April report, with lower placements and marketings signaling tighter feedlot activity.
Steven Snow with the U.S. Small Business Administration joined us to discuss tax relief for rural Americans and the long-term benefits of new provisions impacting farmers and small businesses.
Rising global supplies may cap soybean price strength, while sorghum prices hinge heavily on China’s export demand.
Strong ethanol output supports corn demand despite export weakness.