US pork exports raced to a great start in 2024, according to January data released by USDA and compiled by USMEF. Although January pork exports were led by another powerful performance in leading market Mexico, US pork continued to make gains in a wide range of Western Hemisphere and Asia-Pacific destinations. Pork exports totalled 251,424 metric tons (mt) in January, up 6% from a year ago, while export value also increased 6% to $682.1 million.

“Mexico’s demand for US pork is so spectacular that it tends to overshadow other great success stories,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “It is especially gratifying to see other markets following the trail blazed by Mexico, as purchases expand beyond raw material for further processing to include center-of-the-plate cuts, including loins, which are gaining popularity at retail and foodservice.”