Less American pork to Asia

For the second month in a row, the export figures of the American pig sector remain below last year's level. In August, 186.658 tons were exported. That is 2% less than in the same month last year.

The United States (US) is actually making a profit in South America. The US exported about 65.037 tons of pork to Mexico, a fraction more than last year. In the first 8 months of 2017, 522.227 tons of pork went to Mexico, an increase of 18% compared to 2016. The underlying value even increased by 22% to $984.1 million. Volumes are also increasing rapidly in other South American countries.

Asia exports are declining  
Exports to Japan, the most important customer by value, fell by 9% in August to 31.863 tons. The underlying value is down 7% to $140 million. Despite the loss in August, the US exported 8% more pork to Japan in the first 1 months to 260.352 tons.

The China/Hong Kong region imported 34.616 tons of American pork, 8% less than in the same month last year. Through August, the US exported 341.080 tons of pork to that region, also 8% less than the same period in 2016. The underlying is down 1% to $705.5 million. Of total US pork production, 23,1% was exported in August, up from 24,1% in 2016. 

Wouter Job

Wouter Baan is editor-in-chief of Boerenbusiness. He also focuses on dairy, pig and meat markets. He also follows (business) developments within agribusiness and interviews CEOs and policymakers.

w.baan@boerenbusiness. Nl

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