United States (U.S.) exports of fresh and frozen pork increased by more than 50% in 2008, compared with exports in 2007, according to the European Market Survey.
The largest destination for U.S. exports in 2008 continued to be Japan, reportedly accounting for over a quarter of all shipments. Mexico, China, Hong Kong and Russia also showed an increase in fresh and frozen pork year-on-year.
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Imported pork, according to the European Market Survey, was less competitively priced compared with domestic pork in 2008. The weakening value of the U.S. dollar against the Euro resulted in imports from Denmark to the U.S. becoming less attractive.
Imports from Canada were 18% lower year-on-year. U.S. finishers imported 7% fewer pigs from Canada during 2008, reportedly as a result of unfavorable exchange rates early in the year, ongoing herd reductions in Canada, and uncertainty created by the U.S. country of origin labeling (COOL) requirements that went into effect September 30, 2008.
