Nov 24, 2025
Pork exports to Mexico thrive, while beef struggles with China
In August, U.S. pork exports demonstrated resilience, despite a slight decline compared to the previous year. Conversely, U.S. beef exports continued to face significant challenges, particularly with access to the Chinese market.
Pork Export Performance
August saw U.S. pork exports reach 236,311 metric tons, a minor 1% decrease from the previous year, valued at $685.9 million (EUR 594.8). Mexico remained a stronghold for U.S. pork, with shipments increasing by 8% to 102,790 metric tons, marking the fifth-largest volume on record. The export value to Mexico also rose by 9% to $252.3 million (EUR 218.6), the second-highest on record. However, overall exports from January to August were 3% lower in both volume and value compared to last year's record pace, largely due to reduced shipments to China, where retaliatory tariffs have impacted trade.
Beef Export Challenges
U.S. beef exports experienced a sharp decline, with August figures at 83,388 metric tons, down 19% from the previous year. The export value also fell by 18% to $695.5 million (EUR 602.9). The primary challenge remains the impasse with China, which has significantly reduced U.S. beef access to this critical market. The volume of beef exports to China in August plummeted by 94% compared to the previous year. For the first eight months of the year, beef exports to China were down by 52% in volume and 53% in value.
Market Implications
The ongoing trade issues with China have prompted U.S. exporters to seek alternative markets. While exports to South Korea and Central America have shown positive trends, the overall market dynamics remain challenging for beef. In contrast, the pork sector has benefited from robust demand in Mexico and Central America, maintaining a strong market presence despite global trade tensions.
In summary, while U.S. pork exports have managed to maintain a steady performance, thanks to strong demand from Mexico, the beef sector continues to grapple with significant barriers in China. The situation underscores the need for strategic market diversification and the resolution of trade disputes to stabilise and enhance U.S. meat exports.