U.S. pork exports to Central America were record-large in 2024, breaking previous highs in both volume and value, the according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).
Lucia Ruano, USMEF representative in the region, says consumer education programs have helped position U.S. pork as a high-quality, center-of-the-plate protein. These efforts are supported by USDA and the National Pork Board.
“We are trying to improve pork’s image as a very good protein with a lot of nutrients, easy to handle, versatility, delicious flavor,” Ruano says.
Ruano notes consumers are seeing pork available in retail stores, including all the cuts from the loin like the cowboy, ribeye and strip loin.
“All of these cuts that we have from the loin are not only affordable, but they have a very good flavor if you cook them and handle them in the correct way,” she adds.
The record performance for U.S. pork was achieved despite some obstacles in Panama, which has imposed a cap on pork imports that is inconsistent with its obligations under the U.S.-Panama Trade Promotion Agreement. Ruano says this has frustrated importers and led to some product shortages, including pork ribs sought by restaurant chains, according to USMEF.
However, countries like Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica have zero tariffs since they are part of the Central America-Dominican Republic-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), giving U.S. pork full access.
In 2024, pork exports to Central America increased 21% year-over-year, reaching 166,000 metric tons. Export value climbed 29% to $523 million.
