09 Jul 2025
U.S. Meat Exports to China Plummet
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U.S. Meat Exports to China Plummet Amid High Tariffs and Regulatory Barriers
July 7, 2025 | Meatex News Desk
U.S. meat exports to China have dropped sharply, driven by persistently high tariffs and unresolved regulatory issues, according to data from the U.S. Meat Export Federation.
Key Factors Behind the Decline
- In May 2025, U.S. pork exports to China fell by 82% year-on-year to just 6,720 metric tonnes, with value down 77% to $20.7 million.
- Beef exports to China dropped 91% in volume and 90% in value, totaling under 1,400 metric tonnes and less than $15 million, respectively.
- Tariffs peaked in April at 172% for pork and 147% for beef, and although a temporary 90-day easing was announced in mid-May, rates remain high at 57% for pork and 32% for beef.
- Additionally, China has not renewed registrations for many U.S. beef plants and cold storage facilities, rendering much of U.S. beef ineligible for export.
Broader Trade Impacts
- Despite the downturn in China, U.S. meat exports have remained strong in other regions. Pork exports to Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and Cuba are on a record pace.
- Beef exports to South Korea reached their highest monthly volume in over two years, with strong demand also reported in Latin America, the UAE, and Africa.
Industry leaders warn that unless progress is made in U.S.-China trade negotiations before the August 12 tariff deadline, exporters may further reduce production for the Chinese market.
Original reporting by National Hog Farmer
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