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USMEF hopes beef exports can maintain momentum

U.S. beef exports will face an uphill battle in 2023 to exceed 2022 levels.

John Hinners with the U.S. Meat Export Federation says the Japanese, Korean, and Chinese markets accounted for more than $2 billion each this past year.

“If we can continue that momentum in those markets it’s going to be a win/win for beef producers. It’s certainly exciting, (but) going to be challenging going forward to kind of maintain.”

He tells Brownfield ongoing drought will affect cattle numbers and a strong dollar could limit demand.  But Hinners says U.S. beef remains competitive on the global market.

“While we may be at one price, a carcass in Japan could bring $10,000 to $15,000. Hanwoo carcass in Seoul, Korea, certainly $9 a pound.”

He says U.S. beef exports are on pace to reach $12 billion in value this year.

Brownfield interviewed Hinners during the Minnesota Cattle Industry Convention in Willmar, Minnesota Friday.