November exports of US pork were the largest of 2022 in both volume and value, according to data released by USDA and compiled by US Meat Export Federation (USMEF). 

Pork exports reached 245,663 metric tons (mt) in November, up 3% from a year ago, while export value climbed 10% to $725.1 million. In both volume and value, exports were the highest since May 2021. For January through November, pork exports were 10% below the previous year at 2.43 million mt, valued at just under $7 billion (down 7%).

Pork exports to Mexico set another value record in November, topping $200 million for the second consecutive month, and volume was record-large at 87,809 mt. Overall results were also bolstered by excellent growth in variety meat exports, which were up more than 25% year-over-year at just over 50,000 mt, valued at $116.9 million – up 21% and the fourth highest on record, driven by growth to China and Mexico.

“I cannot say enough about the tremendous performance of the Mexican market and its importance to the US pork industry,” said USMEF president and CEO Dan Halstrom. “US pork faces heightened competition in Mexico, especially with the recent suspension of import duties. But US industry efforts to educate the trade and consumers about the outstanding quality, consistency and value of US pork continue to pay dividends and elevate overall demand. The rebound in pork variety meat exports is also excellent news for the US industry, reflecting broad-based demand growth and an improved labour situation.”