January 8, 2004

US Pork Exports Up in January-October 2003

US pork exports increased during the January to October period in 2003 despite an unstable worldwide economy coupled with imposition of Japanese tariffs.

Between January and October exports (including variety meats) rose three percent in volume and four percent in value compared to the same time period in 2002.

Japan remains the top export market for US pork. Exports to Japan increased three percent in volume, but declined five percent in value.

Second largest market is Mexico. Exports declined seven percent in volume, but increased eight percent in value.

Canada, the third-largest US market for pork, increased purchases of pork by 19 percent in volume and 13 percent in value.

China is also emerging as a leading export market. It ranks as fourth-largest importer of US pork, increasing its imports by 16 percent in volume and ten percent in value during the first ten months of last year.