Halstrom Expects U.S. Meat Industry To Grow In 2026

Despite challenges from supply, tariffs and a strong dollar, demand for American meats remained strong in 2025.  U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom said beef demand was down slightly, but he’s not concerned.

"When you consider the record high prices, demand continued in Mexico as well on beef," Halstrom said.  "But it's not limited only to Mexico, Central America, another area that continues to grow, and has the last three or four years. You know, can't leave Asia out either. Korea in particular, has really picked up the pace the last several months. I think there's a lot of good things going on in these markets, which, as we segue way into 2026, has a lot of opportunity going forward.”

There's Room To Grow

In the year head, Halstrom said USMEF will lay the groundwork to expand markets fueled by programs like USDA's America First Trade Promotion Program.

“Central America, it's been booming recently in the last four or five years, and we see further development potential on both beef and pork in that whole region," he said.  "And you have some newer regions around the world. Southeast Asia in particular, Indonesia would be a very good example on the beef side, where there's a lot of work to be done investing some of these funds to further grow our beef business long term."

Keep An Eye On Africa

Halstrom added West Africa and Central Africa both have the potential to be beneficial markets for American livestock producers.  He added the USMEF is confident the meat industry will enjoy growth in 2026.

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