Beef and Pork Exports Moderate in April, Remain Above Year-ago Levels

U.S. red meat exports last month slowed moderately from the pace established in March, but were still significantly higher year-over-year, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation. Beef exports reached 99,000 metric tons in April, up 13 percent from a year ago, valued at $550.4 million. For January through April, beef exports were up 14 percent in volume and 18 percent in value, at $2.16 billion, compared to the same period last year. Pork exports followed a record-breaking March with a solid April performance, reaching 203,000 metric tons, up eight percent from a year ago, and the largest April volume on record. Export value was up 11 percent to $517 million. For January through April, pork exports increased 15 percent in volume and 19 percent in value at $2.1 billion. USMEF President and CEO Philip Seng cautioned: “While April was a very solid month for U.S. red meat exports, we remain in an extremely competitive situation across the world and must stay aggressive with our marketing efforts.”