Less Beef Exported, But More Money Made

Although the volume of U.S. beef exports was down slightly in June, the value was up to $790 million.  U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom said the export value was a bit higher than a year ago, which is always a good sign.

“I think one of the key things that stood out on the Asian side was Taiwan, without a doubt," Halstrom noted.  "Demand for beef being strong in Taiwan is not a new thing, but what is new is this continued demand for some of the less utilized cuts.  Big focus on things like rounds, chuck rolls, of course, short plates, this sort of thing. “

Halstrom said that news from Asia is very encouraging, but he said when combining those sales with the demand coming out of Latin America, he noted things look very strong.

“The Dominican Republic, in particular, is on record pace on beef exports," Halstrom said.  "Everyone knows they have a tourism industry which continues to be strong, but the part that a lot of people may not realize is that we're starting to get a bigger and bigger foothold in the growing modern retail sector.”

Halstrom added when taking a look at the first half of 2026, and if China is pulled from the mix, beef exports numbers are down slightly on volume, but higher when it comes to value.  He pointed out that speaks to the USMEF’s efforts to diversify markets, and not be so reliant on any one market like China.

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