WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — U.S. pork producers are facing a slower export outlook as weaker demand from Mexico adds pressure to the industry.
USDA expects pork exports to grow 1.1% this year, followed by less than 1% growth next year. Economists say weaker demand from Mexico, one of the country’s larger customers, is contributing to the slowdown.
USDA has also lowered its production forecasts following reports of fewer expected farrowings, leaving producers watching export demand and global competition as they plan for next year.
Despite the weaker outlook, Japan remains a key market for U.S. pork. Andy Tauer with the National Pork Board says that relationship has remained strong for five decades.
“Their staff in Japan, there’s about 14 of them, are all from the country, and so they understand the various culinary trends that are happening. They see the demographic shifts that are happening in real time. They can bring that intel back to the USMEF home office in Denver, which then disseminates that out to the packers, processors, and to National Pork Board to make sure we align the product that we’re sending to the marketplace with those consumer needs and those demands.”
Tauer says the industry is now working to reach more young Japanese consumers with U.S. pork.
