DENVER — US beef and pork exports in July continued to build momentum, performing well above year-ago levels, according to data released by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and compiled by the US Meat Export Federation (USMEF).

July beef exports were the second largest of 2024 at 110,419 tonnes, up 7% from last year. Export value climbed 12% to $910.9 million — also the second highest of the year.

Growth was fueled by a strengthening demand in Japan, Taiwan, Mexico and the Middle East and ASEAN regions. Notably, July beef exports to Mexico reached the largest of 2024. As of USMEF’s report, Mexico is the largest volume destination for US beef variety meat and second to Japan in value.

“It is very gratifying to see demand for US beef trending upward in Asian markets, with Japan and Taiwan leading the way and an outstanding showing in the ASEAN region,” said Dan Halstrom, USMEF president and chief executive officer. “US beef has weathered severe headwinds in Asia and especially in Japan, but the outlook for the remainder of the year is encouraging. July was also another impressive month for Mexico, which continues to display excellent demand for an expanding range of US beef cuts and variety meats.”

Colombia’s restrictions of US beef imports due to H5N1 found in dairy cattle continue to be a hurdle. In July, beef exports to Colombia totaled only 88 tonnes. While shipments in the first quarter were strong, they fell sharply after exports from affected states were suspended — a barrier that was placed in April.

Pork also posted a promising month. July pork exports reached 241,210 tonnes, a 10% increase from a year ago. Export value jumped 13% to $710.5 million, which was largely due to a record high value for leading market Mexico — a total of $244.5 million. Pork exports also trended substantially higher year-over-year in most Latin American markets and in South Korea.

“Mexico was definitely the pacesetter for US pork again in July, but demand was also outstanding in Central America, Colombia and the Caribbean,” Halstrom noted. “Pork exports to Korea also continued to perform well in what is shaping up to be a record year.”

US lamb exports did not see the same upward trend as beef and pork in July. Down 12% from last year, lamb exports totaled 173 tonnes. However, they still achieved a 13% increase in value to $1.05 million. Growth was led by the Bahamas, Netherlands Antilles and Mexico.