April beef exports to Japan rise 6% - USMEF
The weak yen is aa challenge, but demand is high
18 June 2024
1 minute read
By: April beef exports to Japan increased 6% from a year ago in volume (21,028 mt) and 11% in value ($162.9 million), according to a recent market report from the US Meat Export Council.
For January through April, shipments to Japan were still down 6% from a year ago at 83,720 mt, but value achieved a 2% increase at $632.7 million.
Japan remains the leading value destination for beef variety meat exports, mainly purchasing tongues and skirts.
These exports increased 2% through April to 15,042 mt, while value climbed 19% to $162.3 million.
Inventories of imported beef at the end of April were down 16% from a year ago and Japan’s purchases of US beef are expected to remain relatively steady, as has been the case through the first four months of the year.
The weak yen is a significant challenge, especially when combined with Japan’s high import duties, but there is still demand for grain-fed US beef at retail and foodservice.
