As the Senior Vice President of Market Growth at the National Pork Board, I am thrilled to share the outstanding achievements of the U.S. pork industry in 2024. Our exports reached an unprecedented 3.03 million metric tons, a 4% increase from the previous year, with a total value of $8.63 billion, marking a 6% rise. This success is a testament to the dedication of America’s 60,000 pork producers and our strategic efforts to enhance the global presence of U.S. pork.
Key Highlights from 2024:
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Mexico: Our largest export destination, Mexico, imported 1.15 million metric tons of U.S. pork, a 5% increase from 2023. The export value to Mexico surged by 10% to $2.58 billion, more than doubling since 2020.
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Colombia: Demonstrating remarkable growth, exports to Colombia rose by 26% to 142,035 metric tons, significantly surpassing the previous record set in 2021. The export value to this market jumped 32%, reaching just under $360 million.
These milestones underscore the effectiveness of our international market development strategy, which focuses on building confidence in U.S. pork within a diverse global protein market. By differentiating our products from competitors and adding value in various markets, we have expanded our reach and reinforced trust in U.S. pork production practices.
Our partnership with the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) has been instrumental in this success. USMEF’s on-the-ground marketing programs position U.S. pork as a safe, high-quality, and consistent product. Through collaborative efforts, including the USDA’s Market Access Program, we have maximized our investments, ensuring a strong return for U.S. pork producers.
Looking ahead, we remain committed to sustaining this momentum. By leveraging strategic partnerships, focusing on market-specific consumer trends, and continually enhancing the quality and versatility of U.S. pork products, we aim to build upon this success and further solidify our position in the global market.
