(NAFB) – In 2020, exports of U.S. pork set record high levels. According to Clay Eastwood, Director of International Marketing with the National Pork Board, nearly 30 percent of the total U.S. pork production was exported to foreign markets, for consumption. Eastwood breaks that down into export value and volume details.

As one of the leading sources of pork on the global table, Eastwood says about 7 countries currently import that majority of our pork. China led the way, but success in other markets is important to the overall success of export growth.

Eastwood says the plan for 2021 is to extend into great diversification of both markets and products. Understanding potential in  emerging and growth markets is part of this strategy.

Through the Pork Checkoff’s ongoing partnership with the U.S. Meat Export Federation, pork producers’ contribution to international marketing efforts through the Checkoff typically receive more than a 3:1 math once dollars from other industry partners are leveraged among federal programs. This helps ensure a maximum possible investment to support efforts to increase U.S. pork important and consumption in core markets.