Record Export Value to Mexico – Driving Strong Growth in U.S. Pork Exports
Pork exports in July were significantly higher than the same period last year, led by record-breaking shipments to Mexico.
U.S. pork exports reached 241,210 tons in July, a 10% increase from the same period last year. Export value surged by 13% to $710.5 million, with $244.5 million from Mexico. For the first seven months of 2024, pork exports increased by 4%, reaching 1.76 million tons, valued at nearly $5 billion, up 6% year-over-year, setting an annual record.
After a slight dip in June, exports to Mexico rebounded strongly in July, reaching $244.5 million, a 29% increase year-over-year, marking the highest ever. Export volume also jumped 24% to 100,577 tons. From January to July, exports set a record, rising 8% to 663,777 tons, with value up 15% to $1.45 billion. High pork prices and limited domestic supply in Mexico drove increased demand for U.S. pork.
Exports to Colombia also hit a record pace, with volume in July up 11% year-over-year to 8,570 tons, valued at $24.8 million (up 16%).
Thanks to strong growth in Honduras, pork exports to Central America in July increased by 18% to 10,790 tons, valued at $34.9 million (up 28%).
Recovery in the Dominican Republic and new demand in Cuba boosted pork exports to the Caribbean in July to 9,247 tons, a 47% increase, with value up 51% to $29.5 million.
Exports to South Korea in July totaled 13,674 tons, up 16% year-over-year but still the lowest volume in 2024. Export value reached $49.3 million, up 30%. Shipments to South Korea are on track for an annual record in 2024.
While exports to China/Hong Kong are slower than last year, the region remains a leading market for U.S. pork offal. As of July, total offal exports reached 187,954 tons, down 6% from last year, with value down 16% to $444.4 million.