PALM SPRINGS, CALIF. (RFD-TV) — U.S. meat industry leaders are wrapping up the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) 50th Anniversary conference, where discussions focused on international demand, changing consumer preferences, and opportunities for future growth.
Gerardo Rodriguez, USMEF’s Director for Mexico, Central America, and the Dominican Republic, joined Market Day Report to discuss demand for U.S. pork and beef in Mexico, competition from other exporting countries, and key takeaways from this week’s conference.
Growing Demand for U.S. Pork in Mexico
Mexico is the top export market for U.S. pork, with shipments reaching about $2 billion so far this year.
In his interview with RFD-TV, Rodriguez said Mexican consumption has evolved, with pork moving beyond its traditional role as an ingredient and becoming a center-of-the-plate protein.
He said the industry is working to create more opportunities for consumers to purchase and eat pork throughout the day, beyond breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Convenience stores are one example of an expanding sales channel. Rodriguez said those efforts are helping increase consumption per capita while highlighting pork’s affordability.
Quality and Consistency Drive U.S. Beef Demand
U.S. beef exports to Mexico totaled about $1 billion through September, making it one of the country’s top markets.
Rodriguez said Mexican consumers are less focused solely on price and increasingly look for quality and consistency, including high-choice and prime-grade beef.
While pork is often an everyday protein, he said consumers recognize U.S. beef as an option when they want a higher-quality meal.
Staying Competitive in the Mexican Market
Rodriguez said exporters from other countries are also competing for market share in Mexico, making it important for the U.S. industry to remain aggressive in expanding sales channels and reaching consumers.
He emphasized the need to monitor changing trends and preferences so promotional efforts stay relevant.
Rodriguez said understanding what consumers want and staying ahead of those changes will help the industry remain effective in the market.
Looking Ahead
As the conference wrapped up in Palm Springs, Rodriguez said participants exchanged information and discussed expectations for 2027.
He said the conversations throughout the week gave industry leaders a chance to consider the market’s direction and prepare for future growth.
