U.S. pork export sales fall to marketing-year low despite strong demand from Mexico, Canada
Mexico remains the leading destination for U.S. pork shipments as export volumes stay resilient
USA – Weekly U.S. pork export sales dropped to their lowest level of the current marketing year, although demand from key North American markets continued to provide support for the sector.
According to the latest export data released by the USDA, net U.S. pork sales totalled 16,100 metric tonnes (mt) during the reporting week, representing a 31% decline from the previous week and a 50% drop compared with the prior four-week average. Despite the slowdown in new bookings, actual export shipments remained relatively stable at 30,000mt.
Mexico and China emerged as the leading buyers during the week, each purchasing 4,100mt of U.S. pork. Canada followed with new orders of 2,300mt, highlighting the continued importance of North American markets to the U.S. pork industry.
Mexico continues to drive export growth
While weekly sales figures fluctuated, Mexico remained the dominant destination for physical pork shipments. The country imported 12,900mt during the reporting period, helping maintain the record pace of U.S. pork exports seen during the first half of 2026.
The strong performance in Mexico comes shortly after industry figures showed U.S. pork exports to the country reached 403,675mt between January and April 2026, a 5% increase year-on-year. Export value during the period approached US$900 million, putting shipments on track for a record year.
Industry analysts noted that weekly export sales can vary significantly due to purchasing schedules and inventory management decisions by importers. However, the broader outlook for U.S. pork exports remains positive.
Demand from Latin American markets, combined with recovering purchases from Asian destinations such as Japan, continues to support the movement of both pork cuts and variety meats from U.S. inventories. This export demand plays a critical role in balancing domestic supplies and supporting producer returns.
Analysts said sustained international demand remains essential for the U.S. pork sector, as export markets help absorb production volumes and provide stability for the broader livestock industry amid ongoing market volatility.
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