U.S. pork exports have topped year-ago totals for the first time this year. USDA data compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), showed August exports finally give the pork industry reason to celebrate. Mexico continues to fuel impressive pork exports from the U.S., though significant growth in other countries that haven’t been seen for a while has also led to the export win.

China was up significantly, thanks in part to increasing domestic live hog prices and a rebound in demand and consumption. The Philippines and Korea were both up, too, despite other supplies recently gaining zero-duty access. The trade change mainly benefited Canada, Mexico and Brazil’s pork exports. A strong U.S. dollar is also supporting pork exports against some key currencies.

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