International Trade with US Meat Export Federation 3-18-2026

Courtney Heller and Jessica Spreitzer from the US Meat Export Federation will discuss trade opportunities for sheep and goat producers. U.S. Lamb Trade Analysis For 2025, lamb muscle cut exports totaled 2,765 mt, up 38% and the largest since 2013. In December exports of U.S. lamb muscle cuts down 10% inventory, but increased 11% in value with growth driven primarily by Mexico and the Bahamas. Export value climbed 29% to $15.2 million, the highest value since 2014. Shipments posted strong year-over-year growth in Mexico, Canada, Central America, and Trinidad and Tobago. Mexico’s demand continues to expand to a wider range of items, including underutilized cuts from the breast and shoulder (USMEF). USDA trade data summarized by Livestock Marketing Information Center Lamb reported that lamb imports were down 6 million pounds (-2% AUS; -3% NZ; -2% Total) to 303 million pounds in 2025. In 2025, Australia accounted for 75% of total U.S. lamb imports while New Zealand accounted for 24%. Eat Lamb, Wear Wool!