The World’s Changing Views Of U.S. Animal Agriculture

At the National Institute of Animal Agriculture (NIAA) 2009 Annual Meeting, a representative of the United States Meat Export Federation (USMEF) provided this overview of global meat consumption, with emphasis on U.S. exports.

U.S. pork exports have more than doubled since the year 2000, reaching record levels in 2008. Volume was up 57% to 4.5 billion pounds, with value increasing similarly, 55% to $4.9 billion. Nearly one-quarter of all U.S. pork was exported in 2008. The top importers of U.S. pork include Japan, Russia, and China. In 2009, USMEF anticipates that production of pork in China will grow and there will be sustained demand from Mexico and Japan.

Exports of beef are anticipated to grow to 3.0 billion pounds by 2011, having recovered about 60% of 2003 export volume in 2007. Exports are now approaching 2003 highs. In 2008 beef exports were up 28% by volume and 38% by value from the previous year. The largest exporters of beef are Brazil, Australia, and the U.S. In 2009, small export increases are likely. South Korea, Japan, and Greater China will be key markets.

Farmed animal welfare is mentioned among the list of the “next generation of issues,” along with other ethical concerns and technical issues like standards and traceability.