United States: Red meat exports continue record pace

“USMEF had expected a continued strong performance in June for both beef and pork exports, despite significant headwinds,” said Dan Halstrom, USMEF president and chief executive officer. “2021 has presented many formidable challenges for the US industry, including a very tight labor situation, logistical obstacles that slowed product movement and foodservice restrictions in many key markets. So, the fact that first-half exports reached record levels speaks to the loyalty of our international customer base, strong consumer demand for high-quality, nutritious US red meat and the US industry’s ability to adapt to a challenging and rapidly changing business climate. We have also seen a welcome rebound in beef and pork variety meat volumes, which had been down last year.” Total beef exports for the month of June were 112,249 tonnes, up 42% from a year ago when COVID-related slowdowns in production affected exports. The export value of beef increased 68% from a year ago to $804.4 ...