Beef, pork exports increase in January

Beef, pork exports increase in January U.S. global beef exports were up 4 percent by value in January, as compared to the same month in 2008, despite economic gloom that hurt other trade sectors, the U.S. Meat Export Federation said Friday.
   In terms of volume, trade was even with January 2008, at 146.5 million pounds, but by value, exports increased to $233 million.
   'The increase in beef muscle cut exports is very gratifying, especially in the face of so much economic uncertainty,' said Philip Seng, USMEF president and chief executive officer.
   Pork exports, meanwhile, saw a bigger jump in value and sizable increase in volume in January. Exports grew 6 percent by value, to $360 million and 8 percent by volume, to 345.3 million pounds.
   “We all know that 2008 — especially the first half of the year — was an exceptional accomplishment for pork exports,' Seng said. 'While 2008 was an all-time high for both volume and value of U.S. pork exports, circumstances have changed dramatically in some key markets and matching those results will be a significant challenge. But I'm pleased to see we were able to achieve positive growth in January, due in large part to our strong sales of variety meat. We anticipated a decline in pork demand in China, Russia and some other key markets.'