News

Mexico key for U.S. pork industry growth

The National Pork Board says growing demand for U.S. pork in Mexico remains a priority for the industry. 

Courtney Knupp tells Brownfield Mexico is a high-dollar export market.

“Because Mexico consumes all parts of the pig, parts that are not consumed in the United States. So, it allows us to maximize the value we get for the entire carcass,” she says.

In 2023, U.S. pork producers exported more than $2 billion worth of pork to Mexico. 

Illinois pork producer and National Pork Board member Pat Bane says pork demand in Mexico remains high.

“We tend to think Mexico’s closed, they’re a big market, but the market is growing, and the taste is growing there. Ee have to be diligent in pursuing every avenue and continue to grow that market,” he says.

He says he’s proud of the work USMEF is doing to expand opportunities for U.S. producers.

“It takes a really good team, and it takes time,” he says.

The U.S. Meat Export Federation held its inaugural Red Meat Symposium in Mexico City in June and brought together more than 150 U.S. exporters and Mexican importers.  

The Pork Checkoff partners with the U.S. Meat Export Federation to help develop and grow demand for U.S. pork in the global marketplace. 

AUDIO: Courtney Knupp and Pat Bane, National Pork Board