Pork exports to Korea hit record high in 2024, but momentum slows – USMEF

US pork exports to South Korea reached a record high in 2024, climbing to $728 million in annual value, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the US Meat Export Federation (USMEF).

However, the strong performance lost steam in the final quarter, with the downward trend extending into January.

Shipments in January fell 21% year-on-year to 16,453 metric tons, while export value dropped 22% to $52.7 million.

Although US pork continues to enter Korea duty-free under a trade agreement, the market has become increasingly competitive. Other major pork-exporting nations also benefit from similar duty-free access, intensifying the battle for market share.

Industry analysts say maintaining momentum will require strategic positioning and possibly increased marketing efforts in South Korea, one of the most valuable destinations for US pork.

Tags: exports, pork, South Korea, US, shipments