December 29, 2022
US beef exports surpass US$10 billion in 2022
Beef exports from the US have surpassed US$10 billion this year for the second time in the country's history, with exports on pace to reach US$12 billion after all shipments this year are tallied, Norfolk Nebraska Radio reported.
The recent market access to China played a significant role to the increased US beef exports.
Dan Halstrom, president and CEO of the US Meat Export Federation, said there has also been widespread growth and international demand.
He said the US experienced record growth in 2020 and 2021, but it wasn't due to any one market in particular.
He also said it is true that China has experienced tremendous growth over the past three years, which is positive given that the country's market is worth US$2 billion, adding that South Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Columbia have all seen growth.
Because of African Swine Fever, pork exports will fall short of the records set in 2020 and 2021.
With COVID-19 restrictions easing, Asian consumers are returning to restaurants and stores at the beginning of the new year, which Halstrom said presents a growth opportunity for the US red meat industry.
- Norfolk Nebraska Radio