U.S. pork exports reached significant milestones in 2025, recording the second-highest value and third-largest volume in history. According to data from the USDA and the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), the year concluded with robust performance in Latin America and a late-year rebound in Asian markets.
Quick Facts: 2025 Pork Export Totals
- Total Volume: 2.94 million metric tons (mt) — third largest on record.
- Total Value: $8.4 billion — second highest on record.
- Per Head Value: Approximately $65 for every animal slaughtered.
- Variety Meat Contribution: 13% to 14% of total export value (approx. $1.1 billion).
What These Export Numbers Mean for U.S. Pork Producers
According to USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom, the export market adds significant value to the bottom line of domestic producers. The $65-per-head contribution is driven largely by products with low domestic demand, such as variety meats. In December alone, pork variety meat exports were valued at nearly $105 million, the highest level since March.
Top Performing Markets in 2025
The 2025 export story was defined by record-breaking demand in the Western Hemisphere and a recovery in the East:
Mexico: Remained the leading market with record-large volume and value.
Latin America: Achieved its second-largest value year ever, with record shipments to Central America and the Caribbean.
Colombia: Reached a new record in export value.
Asia: While down for the full year, markets in South Korea, Japan, ASEAN, and Taiwan saw a significant rebound in the second half of 2025.
Market Outlook for 2026
Despite a 3.5% year-over-year dip in December volume (257,846 mt), the industry remains well-positioned for growth. The late-year momentum in Asia and consistent demand from Mexico suggest a strong trajectory heading into 2026.
“The thing that doesn’t stand out here is that Asia, in the last half of the year, really started to pick up some ground,” Halstrom says. “They were down for the year. But if you remember, early last year, Asia was down quite a bit. In the last half of the year, we saw a rebound in Asia on pork as well. The pork side is well positioned going into 2026.”
