How did pork exports do in 2015?

-During 2015, more than 100 countries around the world imported U.S. pork.

-U.S. pork and pork variety meat exports for the year totaled 4.7 billion pounds in volume and $5.58 billion in value, down 2% and 16%, respectively, from 2014.

-The top five markets in total pounds of pork exported were Mexico (1.585 billion pounds), Japan (895.5 million pounds), Canada (747.5 million pounds), China and Hong Kong (443.1 million pounds) and Korea (369.3 million pounds).

-The top five markets in total value exported were Japan ($1.586 billion), Mexico ($1.267 billion), China and Hong Kong ($778.8 million), Canada ($700.4 million) and Korea ($470.3 million).

More than 100 countries imported U.S. pork in 2015. (Darcy Maulsby/Thinkstock)

-Pork exports accounted for 24% of total 2015 pork and pork variety meat production. Export value per head averaged $48.31, down 23% from 2014. 

“Without a doubt, 2015 was a difficult year for U.S. pork exports,” said Becca Nepple, vice president of international marketing for the Pork Checkoff. “The West Coast port slowdown, market-access challenges, the strong U.S. dollar and strong competition led to last year’s decrease in exports.

“With projections for increased pork production this year, the Checkoff is committed to strengthening its partnership with our international customers,” Nepple said.

Source: National Pork Board