US beef exports to Mexico continue to climb
Exports up 16% over last yearMexico continued to be a bright spot for US beef exports in March, with shipments up 17% from a year ago to 17,454 mt, valued at $97.3 million (up 26%), according to data released by USDA and compiled by USMEF. As a result, first quarter exports reached 50,509 mt, up 16% from a year ago, while value increased 17% to $283.6 million.
One factor bolstering Mexico’s beef demand in 2023 is the strength of the peso, which has given Mexican customers greater purchasing power compared to buyers in several other key markets.
Mexico is the largest volume destination for US beef variety meat, with first quarter exports increasing 13% from a year ago to 25,533 mt, valued at $72.6 million (up 20%). Top variety meat export items to Mexico include livers, tripe, lips, hearts and tongues. First quarter shipments of beef lips were the highest since 2017 at 7,202 mt, up 38% from a year ago, valued at $16.6 million (up 35%).