DENVER — The US Meat Export Federation (USMEF) held the inaugural US Red Meat Symposium in Mexico City June 13-14 to explore the market that is generating record meat export levels. The symposium examined the economic and political climate in Mexico and touched on opportunities for continued growth of US red meat in the market.

The first year of the event was a success, according to Randy Spronk, USMEF chair.

“Mexico is a very important customer for us, especially with its potential for undervalued cuts,” he said. “The turnout for this symposium was outstanding. We even had to limit the number of importers who could attend. I expect it will become a recurring event for the industry.”

Part of the symposium included face-to-face networking opportunities for US suppliers and Mexican importers, including product displays and samplings. Also featured were influential speakers who offered assessments on US-Mexico trade relations, Mexico’s agricultural production and digital trends in the meat industry.

“There’s uncertainty on exporters’ minds related to the recent presidential election, while importers were asking about our cattle cycle,” said Dan Halstrom, president and chief executive officer of USMEF. “But mostly, buyers and sellers were talking about demand. Some may see Mexico as a mature market, but it is still a growing market. As reflected by the market tours, presentations and trade discussions these past two days, there are new and emerging opportunities here for our products."

John Slette, director of USDA’s Agricultural Trade Office in Mexico City, was one speaker to note the growth opportunities in the market.

“I would say that Mexico is still a developing market. Over 60% of Mexicans are still at or below the poverty line and as they move into the middle class, that’s where our growth is going to be,” Slette said.

Funding support for the symposium was provided by the National Pork Board, the Beef Checkoff Program, Indiana Soybean Alliance, Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board, Nebraska Beef Council and USDA’s Market Access Program.