U.S. and Brazil Beef Exports Soar in 2022 Due To Strong Global Demand

13 July 2023

Following remarkable export totals posted in 2021, U.S. beef exports under HS Code 0202 continued to increase in 2022. The product description of HS Code 0202 is frozen meat of bovine animals. U.S. beef exports totaled USD 5,798 million in 2022, a rise from USD 4,515 million in 2021. Similarly, Brazil exported beef worth USD 10,938 million in 2022, up from USD 6,971 million in the previous year. China is the top importer country of beef, with a global market share of 19% recorded in 2022.

The global beef meat industry is a large and complex sector that involves producing, processing, and distributing beef products. It significantly contributes to the world’s food supply and employs millions around the world. The demand for beef has been increasing worldwide, driven by increasing populations and income levels, particularly in developing countries.

However, the industry is also faced with challenges such as environmental impact, concerns over animal welfare, and health risks. Historically, the United States of America was one of the largest consumers of beef meat globally, followed by Brazil, China, the European Union, India, Argentina, Mexico, Russia, Japan, the United Kingdom, Canada, and others.

The demand for U.S. and Brazil beef rises, so exports also increase

The global demand for beef from the United States and Brazil is increasing and so their exports are also rising. Global beef exports have been significant growth in recent years, with major exporting countries including the United States of America, and Brazil. These countries export a range of beef products, including fresh and frozen cuts and processed beef products. Here’s a look at the year-wise comparison of beef exports from the United States and Brazil.

Which countries recorded a rise in beef imports from the United States?

Beef is a highly traded commodity, and many countries import significant amounts of beef to meet the local demand. China was the top importer country of beef that imported USD 223 million worth of beef in 2020. That dollar amount significantly increased to USD 1,709 million in 2022. China was followed by South Korea, Japan, Taipei, the Chinese, and the Philippines. All these countries reported a record jump in the value of shipments in 2022. Take a look at the chart and analyze the stats.

U.S. Beef Exports to Mexico Increased in 2022

Mexico is the leading volume destination for US beef exports. Since 2020, the United States has been witnessing an increase in beef exports to Mexico. In 2020, U.S. beef exports to Mexico jumped to USD 89 million in 2022 from USD 61 million in 2020. Here’s a look at data visualization.

All major regions recorded a surge in the imports of U.S. beef

Some of the largest importers of beef are countries in the Asian region such as China, Japan, and South Korea, as well as countries in the Middle East and Europe. The U.S. beef exports to Asia totaled USD 2,694 million in 2022, shot to USD 5,240 million in 2022. All major regions including Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa reported a surge in the imports of U.S. beef. Analyze and compare the values of these regions shown in the graph.

According to reports, April 2023 beef exports were 10% below last year, totaling 111,416 metric tons, while value declined 18% to $859.5 million. In addition, beef exports fell 8% in volume to 437,910 mt and were 21% lower in value ($3.21 billion) year-over-year in the first four months of 2023. A rebound in travel, tourism, and other food service opportunities has continued to support beef demand abroad. The demand for beef has increased due to population growth and rising incomes, leading to increased imports and exports of beef products worldwide.