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US meat exports grow in Latin America

The head of the US Meat Export Federation says some counties in Latin America are increasing their an appetite for US protein.

Dan Halstrom tells Brownfield demand for beef and pork in Colombia continues to grow rapidly. “Number one, you have a free trade agreement.  Number two, you’ve got a growing population and a young demographic and a more spending power.  I think as these markets – like a Colombia – develop and the middle class expands, they’re wanting higher quality food and more options.”

He says Mexico has been a home run for pork exports. “One of the head winds is exchange rates – a strong U.S. dollar. In Mexico, it’s gone the other way. The US dollar has weakened just slightly against the Mexican peso. Without a doubt, Mexico and the Latin American countries are the shining star this year.”

Speaking with Brownfield during the Kansas Livestock Association annual meeting, Halstrom said demand might weaken some if the global economy slows.