U.S. Red Meat Industry Stays Resilient in Global Markets

Leaders address trade barriers and highlight strong global customer demand

Global demand for U.S. pork, beef, and lamb remains strong, even as the industry navigates significant trade challenges. These insights were shared during the USMEF Strategic Planning Conference, where experts outlined trends and upcoming policy developments affecting red meat exports. 

Dan Halstrom, USMEF President and CEO, explained that pork exports are slightly below last year’s record pace. The decline is mainly tied to early-year disruptions caused by China’s retaliatory tariffs and uncertainty about processing plant eligibility.  

Despite these challenges, pork shipments to Mexico, Central America, and Colombia remain exceptionally strong and continue to support overall export performance. 

Beef exports have faced greater difficulties, especially in China, where several policy actions have restricted U.S. product access. These include additional tariffs, facility delistings, and delays in renewing registrations for most U.S. beef plants.  

“This is obviously a political card that’s being held by the China side,” said Dan Halstrom, USMEF President and CEO. “One thing I’m very confident in is that [the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative] is well aware of our position, well aware of what’s involved, and very well-informed. I do think they’ll get it worked out eventually, I just can't tell you when – no one can.” 

Halstrom also stressed the need to defend existing free trade agreements. Over the past decade, exports to FTA partner nations have expanded by more than 30%, now representing most U.S. red meat shipments. He reminded industry members that past crises, including BSE market closures and the global financial downturn, were eventually overcome through cooperation and perseverance. 

Keynote speaker Jan Lambregts of RaboResearch provided a broader view of global economics, describing current trade tensions as a long strategic contest between major powers. “It was a mismanaged move, I would say,” said Lambregts. “The Trump administration considers (Argentine President Javier) Milei a U.S. ally, and he wanted Milei to do well in the elections. But this deal had a little bit of a hasty feel to it, and now you see unintended consequences.  

He also noted that U.S. financial support to Argentina could create unintended competition for U.S. agricultural exports. 

Photo Credit: gettyimages-luoman