Lower Tariffs, Duty-Free Trade Drives Record-High U.S. Red Meat Exports

U.S. red meat exports reached record highs in 2021, boasting an $18.7 billion value. U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) says reduced tariffs helped boost meat exports, most significantly to Korea. KORUS FTA (free trade agreement) duties decreased 30%, helping the country increase its per-capita consumption 40% compared to ten years ago. Exports to China also greatly increased due to the U.S.-China Phase One Agreement.

Additionally, pork exports to Mexico were also record high last year, taking advantage of the duty-free access granted in the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. KORUS also played a major role in chilled pork exports thanks to zero-duty access. USMEF says Korea has potential for even further growth.

Read more on red meat exports here.