US meat exports were impacted by trade tensions with China in April.

Beef exports in April totaled 100,659 tonnes, down 10% year-on-year, and the value fell 8% to $824.5 million. Exports to CHINA fell by nearly 70%, while shipments to Mexico, Taiwan, and the Middle East also showed a downward trend. These results were partially offset by increased exports to SOUTH KOREA, Japan, and Central and South America.

From January to April, beef exports were 3% below last year's pace, totaling 411,027 metric tons. EXPORT value fell by only 1%, to $3.35 billion.

"We expected beef shipments to China to be disrupted in April due to the dual impact of increased tariffs and expired plant registrations," said Dan Halstrom, President and CEO of USMEF. "We hope these issues will be resolved soon and are encouraged by this week's progress in trade negotiations with China. At the same time, USMEF remains committed to market diversification, and we have intensified efforts to develop alternative destinations for MEAT cuts and products typically shipped to China."

China's overall tariffs on American beef peaked at 147% in April. The rate was reduced to 32% on May 14, when the US and China agreed to a temporary de-escalation to allow for further negotiations. President Trump spoke with Chinese President Xi Jinping on June 5 and stated that further negotiations would take place soon.

Pork exports in April totaled 237,250 tonnes, down 15% year-on-year and the lowest in 10 months. Export value fell 13% to $675.3 million. Exports to China fell 35% year-on-year. Shipments to Mexico, the main market, as well as Japan and CANADA, also declined year-on-year. However, April was another exceptional month for pork exports to Colombia and Central America, which recorded record growth.

From January to April, pork exports were 5% below last year's record pace of 991,738 metric tons, and the value fell 4% to $2.78 billion. "China is resuming the registration of pork production facilities in the U.S., but retaliatory tariffs remain a significant obstacle," said Halstrom. "Exports to Mexico slowed in April, but it's worth remembering that the year-to-year comparison is consistent with the record levels of April 2024. Shipments to Mexico have remained fairly stable year-to-date compared to last year's record pace, and demand in other Latin American countries is also very strong."

China's overall tariffs on American pork and its derivatives peaked at 172% in April. The rate was reduced to 57% on May 14.