United States beef exports finished 2020 off of record highs, but were considered strong by industry standards when the supply chain disruptions tied to the pandemic are factored in. John Hinners with the U.S. Meat Export Federation says they are pleased with the recovery in exports into the end of last year.

Japan remained the top beef export market by value and Hinners doesn’t think the U.S. has even scratched the surface yet when it comes to potential growth, in muscle cuts and variety meats.

He says investments by South Dakota cattle producers in Japan will continue to promote market expansion, which is important since exports are a big part of the value of every carcass.

Hinners says they are also seeing growth in the European market with the expansion of the quota on hormone produced beef.

He says South Dakota checkoff dollars are also being used for USMEF export promotions in Europe.

Hinners provided an update to the South Dakota Beef Industry Council at their quarterly meeting this week in Ft. Pierre.