LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — U.S. pork exports turned in one of their strongest months on record in March, while beef exports showed a split picture as strong variety meat demand helped offset weakness in muscle cuts. According to USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation, pork exports reached 285,567 metric tons, up 6 percent from a year ago.
Pork export value climbed 4 percent to $803.2 million, the second highest on record. USMEF reported stronger March shipments to Mexico, Japan, Central America, the Dominican Republic, the Philippines, and Taiwan, with first-quarter pork exports up 3 percent in both volume and value from last year.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Pork exports are providing strong support to the hog sector, while beef variety meats are adding critical value despite weaker total beef shipments.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Beef exports were weaker overall. March beef exports totaled 97,731 metric tons, down 11 percent from a year earlier, while value slipped 8 percent to $844.7 million. USMEF said the ongoing loss of business in China remained a major drag, though results improved in Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Indonesia.
The strongest beef bright spot was variety meats. March beef variety meat exports jumped 24 percent to 29,062 metric tons, and value surged 50 percent to a record $135.6 million.
USMEF said the beef trade is still finding value in alternative markets, while pork demand remains broad-based across both the Western Hemisphere and key Asian destinations.
With the U.S.–Vietnam agreement nearing signature, U.S. cotton, corn, and soybean exporters could lock in new demand lanes just as global supply shifts.
November 13, 2025 11:33 AM
·
The government reopens after 43 days. USDA resumes key reports, weighs farm aid, and watches China’s next move on U.S. soybean purchases.
November 13, 2025 10:58 AM
·
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney shares insights from a recent study, discusses EV market access in Canada, and highlights other market opportunities top of mind for Canadian producers.
November 12, 2025 03:19 PM
·
USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom shares how recent trade talks are influencing U.S. red meat global sales and the importance of key trade agreements like the USMCA.
November 12, 2025 03:07 PM
·
Enforceable origin labels could create clearer premiums for U.S. cattle and address concerns some producers have had with competition from foreign imported beef.
November 12, 2025 12:39 PM
·
A Reuters report shows China has a soybean “glut,” finding stockpiles at Chinese ports are at record levels, with crushers there holding the most supplies since 2017.
November 12, 2025 10:55 AM
·
