U.S. pork exports to Mexico continue their impressive upward trajectory, following a record-setting 2024. According to the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), exports totaled $2.6 billion in 2024—and momentum hasn’t slowed. In the first quarter of 2025, exports grew 11% year-over-year, despite increasing competition and trade policy uncertainty.
Gerardo Rodriguez, USMEF’s Director in Mexico, credited the growth to multiple factors:
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A more than 50% increase in pork consumption in Mexico over the past 15 years.
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Greater consumer confidence and expanded product visibility.
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The rise of U.S. pork not just in processed goods, but also on the menus of high-end restaurants and everyday household meals.
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U.S. pork now occupies a dominant market share, supplying over 85% of imported pork to Mexico, where more than half of the pork consumed is imported.
Rodriguez also emphasized the role USMEF plays in product development for convenience stores and foodservice—two growing channels helping push pork further into mainstream consumption.
However, with all eligible pork suppliers now enjoying zero-duty access to Mexico, the environment has become increasingly competitive. Rodriguez warned that preserving the U.S.’s duty-free status is essential. Any disruption in trade access could damage the strong bilateral relationship and reduce the value of pork trade for both nations. “Nobody wins, and everything loses value,” he noted.
As demand rises and the playing field grows more crowded, Mexico remains a cornerstone market for U.S. pork. Continued market access, consumer-focused innovation, and supply chain trust will be key to sustaining growth in one of the world’s most vital pork export destinations.
