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ANALYSIS: China’s Oct 2025 Beef Imports Retreat from Record Highs at 281,292 mt
China’s October 2025 beef imports eased back from September’s record highs at 281,292 metric tons (mt), according to the latest data from the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC).
While inbound tonnage slips, volumes remained the second highest on record this year. Shipments fell 11.0% month-on-month (MOM) or 34,593 mt, driven by declines from most key suppliers like Argentina, Australia, Brazil, New Zealand, and Uruguay. Bolivia was the sole exception, partially offsetting the overall drop...
ANALYSIS: Brazil-Mexico Beef Imports Ease Ahead of PACIC Renewal
Brazil’s beef exports to Mexico moved lower in October, as participants reported being adequately covered for both short- and medium-term needs, reducing the urgency for additional bookings. Some participants had maintained a more cautious stance while the industry awaited the decision on the PACIC renewal, which was finally confirmed this week. The announcement removed a point of uncertainty, although participants indicated that it is still too early to determine whether the extension will materially influence short-term import activity...
Australia: Beef Production Hits Record Highs as Lamb and Mutton Turnoff Slows
Australia’s cattle industry continues to set new benchmarks, with the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) figures confirming record beef production for the September quarter.
At the same time, sheep and lamb slaughter has eased significantly following last year’s peak turnoff.
Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA)’s Manager for Market Information, Stephen Bignell said that strong seasonal conditions across northern Australia have underpinned the surge in cattle numbers.
Pork Exports Remain Strong in August; Beef Decline Continues; Lamb Exports Trend Higher
USDA has released August red meat export data, which was delayed due to the lengthy government shutdown. As compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), August data showed a relatively strong performance for U.S. pork exports and an uptick in shipments of U.S. lamb cuts. But beef exports were sharply lower than a year ago, impacted heavily by an impasse with China that has effectively locked U.S. beef out of the world’s largest import market.
August pork exports totaled 236,311 metric tons (mt), down 1% from a year ago, valued at $685.9 million (down 2%)....
The Retail Rundown: Cheaper Turkeys Hit Shelves Despite Wholesale Price Surge
This Thanksgiving, holiday shoppers might spot some relief: retail turkey prices have eased, even as wholesale values climb toward near-record highs.
Ongoing challenges, such as persistent bird flu outbreaks and relatively low hatch rates, have limited production all year, leaving supplies exceptionally thin ahead of the holiday.
While retailers secure turkeys well in advance to build cold-storage inventories, frozen whole-bird stocks in 2025 remain near seasonal record lows, leaving little supply cushion...
ANALYSIS: Australia’s Q3 2025 Beef Production Soar to Record Highs, Cattle Kills Highest Since 1978
Australia’s Q3 2025 beef production surged to a record 759,270 metric tons (mt), as cattle slaughters hit their highest level since 1978, according to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
Rising 5.8% from Q2, the quarterly increment of 41,379 mt was fueled by growth across all beef-producing regions, led by strong gains in Queensland, Australia’s top producer, and New South Wales...
ANALYSIS: US Dairy Herd Shows Continued Robust Growth
The USDA’s September data showed a pronounced expansion in the US dairy herd in the 24 selected states; an increase of 235,000 cows year-over-year was reported. This marked acceleration from recent months. That gain helped lift national herd counts well above 2024 levels for much of 2025.
Producers are driving growth by retaining higher and mid‑producing cows for additional lactation cycles and keeping back added heifers on the farm. Those retention choices reflect the push for many operations to produce more milk to...
Andrews Meat Industries Acquires Prime Cut Meats to Boost Turnover and Expand Distribution
Andrews Meat Industries (AMI), part of the JBS Australia food group, has acquired Queensland-based foodservice wholesaler Prime Cut Meats (PCM). This strategic acquisition is expected to increase AMI's turnover to over $650 million in the coming financial year.
Both family-managed businesses, AMI and PCM, share a commitment to quality and service, making this partnership a natural fit. AMI CEO Peter Andrews expressed confidence that the acquisition will augment PCM's reputation and enhance distribution capabilities in Queensland...
Proposed WOTUS Rule Protects Environment, Respects Farmers
American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers’ proposed Waters of the United States rule.
“Clean water is a top priority for farmers and ranchers – we depend on it. We are pleased that the new rule protects critical water sources while respecting the efforts of farmers to protect the natural resources they’ve been entrusted with...
NCBA Secures New WOTUS Proposed Rule that Protects Family Farmers and Ranchers
Today, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) announced support for the new proposed Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule released by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The revised WOTUS rule comes after decades of advocacy by NCBA and our state affiliate partners to remove confusing and burdensome regulations on cattle farmers and ranchers.
“Waters of the U.S. has been a longstanding and frustrating issue for family farmers and ranchers. Every few years, the definition of a ‘water of the U.S.’ has changed. Often, this meant that small water features like prairie potholes or dry ditches suddenly fell under federal regulation,” said NCBA...
USMEF Elects New Officers, Examines Reciprocal Trade Opportunities and USMCA Review
The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) concluded its Strategic Planning Conference Friday with election of its new officers. Chairing USMEF for the 2025-26 term is Jay Theiler, executive vice president of corporate affairs for Agri Beef Company, based in Boise, Idaho.
Theiler recalled his early days with Agri Beef, when the company came to realize that it could not maximize the value of each head of livestock processed by selling product only in the Pacific Northwest, or even in the entire United States.
ANALYSIS: UK Cattle Supply Expected to Tighten by 2026
UK cattle supplies are expected to decline further in 2026, influenced by the reduced calf registrations observed in 2024 and 2025. Producer confidence remains mixed due to uncertainties about the industry’s future, impacted by policy changes such as farm payment reforms and potential inheritance tax adjustments. These factors might accelerate culling activities if producers decide to downsize or exit production, potentially affecting prime cattle availability at the beginning of 2026.
Expanding the beef herd requires time to cycle through production, suggesting that supply recovery in 2026 may be limited. Market analysts caution...
The Retail Rundown: A Season of Plenty, Except for Turkey
For retailers, this year’s holiday season is shaping up to be one of plenty. The National Retail Federation (NRF) projects November and December sales to surpass $1 trillion for the first time, underscoring consumers’ continued spending power.
“American consumers may be cautious in sentiment, yet remain fundamentally strong and continue to drive U.S. economic activity,” said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay.
While foodservice outlets are poised to capture consumer traffic on hectic days, retail prepared foods and frozen entrées are well-positioned to compete for at-home dining occasions as shoppers seek convenient, time-saving meal solutions...
Premium Brands Reports Record Q3 Revenue of $2.0 Billion, Raises Full-Year Sales Guidance
Premium Brands, a leading specialty food manufacturer and distributor in the US and Canada, announced its third-quarter fiscal results, highlighting significant achievements.
The company reported a record third-quarter revenue of $2.0 billion, a 19.1% increase from the same period last year, driven by a 10.3% organic volume growth rate.
Strong performance was seen in its core US growth initiatives, with protein, sandwiches, and artisan baked goods posting a combined 24.3% organic volume growth rate. Including...
ANALYSIS: Brazil’s Oct Beef Exports Up 1.9% MOM to 320,558 MT, Setting Second Consecutive Record
The latest data released by Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services indicated that October’s fresh beef (chilled and frozen) exports totaled 320,558 mt, surpassing September’s previous record of 314,690 mt by 1.9% and setting a new all-time high. On a year-over-year (YOY) basis, this represents an 18.6% growth from October last...
ANALYSIS: Navigation Rising Beef Prices and Evolving Blend Trends
When analyzing the majority of October in 2024 and the same period in 2025, the average grinds distribution was lower in 2025 except for 85-89%, 90-94%, and ground sirloin. Despite these few areas of growth, total average distribution fell 11.5% year-over-year. At the same time, non-discounted prices were about 9% higher, and discounted prices were up roughly 8%.
NCBA Supports Legislation to Expand Local Beef Sales
Today, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) announced continued support for the Direct Interstate Retail Exemption for Certain Transactions (DIRECT) Act. This legislation introduced by Sens. Roger Marshall (R-KS), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) would increase marketing opportunities for smaller meat processors and give consumers more options to buy local beef.
“The cattle business benefits greatly from expanding marketing opportunities, and the DIRECT Act opens the door to the growing number of cattle producers who seek to grow their market across state lines,” said NCBA President and Nebraska cattleman Buck Wehrbein. “The increased market exposure...
Wendy's Sees Strong International Growth Amid US Market Challenges in Q3
Hot off the grill, Wendy's released financial results from its third quarter of its fiscal year, showcasing a strong international performance despite challenges in the US market.
Interim CEO Ken Cook highlighted an 8.6% growth in systemwide sales internationally, bolstered by the addition of 54 new restaurants globally and improved adjusted EBITDA.
"Third quarter results were in line with our expectations, reflecting continued strength in our international business," Cook stated. In the U.S., operational initiatives led to a 4% outperformance in comparable sales at Company-operated...
ANALYSIS: Uruguay’s October Beef Exports Fall 3.2% MOM to 30,506 MT, Up 8.1% YOY
The latest data released by Uruguay’s National Customs Directorate indicates that fresh beef (chilled and frozen) exports fell for the third consecutive month, down another 3.2% month-over-month (MOM) to 30,506 metric tons (MT) in October 2025. This represents an 8.1% increase from the same period last year.China remained the main destination, but its share of total shipments shrank MOM from 45.6% last month to 42.2%, now totaling 12,887 mt. This figure is 10.3% lower in comparison to September but still reflects a 15.5% growth year-over-year (YOY)...
Ranchers Support Steve Pearce's Nomination to Lead BLM
Today, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and Public Lands Council (PLC) announced support for President Trump’s nomination of former Congressman Steve Pearce to serve as Director of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
“Having represented New Mexico in Congress and the State House for decades, former Rep. Steve Pearce understands the important role that public lands play across the West. Pearce’s experience makes him thoroughly qualified to lead the BLM and tackle the issues federal lands ranchers are facing,” said NCBA Executive Director of Natural Resources and PLC Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover...
ANALYSIS: Australia’s Oct 2025 Beef Exports Flat MOM as Korea Pulls Back
Australia’s beef exports in October 2025 held largely steady month-on-month (MOM) to 139,0285 metric tons (MT), data from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) showed.
Edging up just 0.2% or 274 mt from September, monthly growth was curbed mainly by lower outbound shipments to Korea as the impact of its safeguard activation took hold. Shipments to the United States (US), China, and Southeast Asia also eased, while Japan logged a solid monthly rebound underpinned by replenishment demand.
On a yearly basis, exports were ...
The Retail Rundown: Turkey Promotions Climb as Holiday Demand Takes Hold
Turkey ads now make up nearly 4% of protein features this week and are on pace to capture a larger share next week as seasonal demand gathers momentum. Beef holds 23.8% of ad space, pork accounts for 22.8%, and chicken eased to 19%—down one point from last week. Eggs have 3% of this week’s buying opportunities, up one point compared to the week prior.
Within the turkey category, ads for frozen whole birds and fresh or frozen parts are evenly split, each accounting for 28% of turkey features...
USMEF Statement on Progress in Trade Negotiations with China
The White House provided more details Nov. 1 on the measures agreed to in last week’s meeting between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, including progress on agricultural trade barriers imposed by China and suspension of port service fees that raise costs for U.S. exporters.
U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom issued the following statement:
USMEF is encouraged by the progress being made in trade negotiations with China, and we appreciate the Trump administration’s emphasis on restoring market access for U.S. agricultural exports. If China follows through on its commitment to...
ANALYSIS: Argentina’s September 2025 Beef Exports Pulled Back 1.7% MOM to 71,328 mt
Argentina’s fresh beef exports (chilled and frozen) slowed down after increasing for five consecutive months, down 1.7% month-over-month (M-O-M) to 71,328 metric tons (mt) in September, according to the latest data released by the National Institute of Statistics and Census. This marks a 1.9% year-over-year (Y-O-Y) decline when compared to September 2024.
On a quarterly basis, Q3 shipments were 4.08% higher than the same period last year, now totaling 207,572 mt...
ANALYSIS: Mexican Ribeye Export Prices Firm on Year-End Demand
The Mexican export market for boneless ribeye continued to show firm upward momentum through late October, with current prices averaging around USD 7.15/lb, up roughly 1.5 USD/lb from year-ago levels. Demand has strengthened notably in recent weeks as buyers seek to secure product for November and December holiday programs. In addition, the weaker US dollar against the Mexican peso has exerted upward pressure on export quotations, supporting firmer tones across the segment as participants reported increased activity to cover end-of-year...
Hormel Shakes Up Leadership In Recent Announcements
Set to coincide with the anniversary of his 30th year of service, PJ Conner, VP of Retail Sales at Hormel Foods, will retire this spring.
"PJ has been a tremendous asset to the organization throughout his three-decade long career,” said John Ghingo, president of Hormel Foods. “He has consistently delivered results, inspired his teams, and helped shape our company’s strategy and culture. We are grateful for his insight, dedication, and focus on supporting our retail partners. His vision and commitment have left a lasting impact on Hormel Foods...
Expansion and Menu Innovations Lead in Foodservice this Week
This week, Expana gathered a collection of headline-worthy news, showcasing the vibrant and constantly evolving world of foodservice. From strategic expansions to culinary innovations, these stories underscore the dynamic nature of the industry and its unwavering momentum.
International Expansion on the Horizon for TGI Fridays
TGI Fridays is gearing up for significant international growth, announcing two master franchise agreements today. In India, USR Hospitality (USR) will develop 51 new locations, while Mid-City Operadora Sapi de CV (MCO_Mexico) is set to open 50 new outlets in...
Australian Beef Industry Sets Global Benchmark in Sustainability Performance
The Australian beef industry has released its 2025 Annual Update under the Australian Beef Sustainability Framework (ABSF), showcasing record-breaking environmental achievements, strengthened market access, and a clear roadmap for future sustainability leadership. Since 2005, the industry has reduced net CO₂-e emissions by 70.1%, largely driven by carbon sequestration in the landscape on grazing land. Beef production reached an all-time high of 2.75 million tonnes, achieved with improved efficiency and reduced waste. Solid waste to landfill in the processing sector fell by 71.6% between...
The Retail Rundown: Holiday Rush Builds Amid Tight Turkey Supplies
As November approaches, the holiday retail rush is underway, and all eyes are on the season’s centerpiece: turkey. Tight supplies and near-record wholesale prices have shaped this year’s turkey market, stirring concerns about Thanksgiving availability.
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), or bird flu, has intensified supply pressures, with cold storage inventories at near historic lows. Many processors are reporting major production shortages heading into the holiday season as the number of turkeys harvested year-to-date hovers at an all-time low, according to Expana's market reporters...
Tariff Talks 2025: Expana’s Weekly Rundown #32
Expana’s global team of specialist reporters has been tracking every twist and turn in the fluid tariff situation.
Click to read: "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #32."
This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text.
...
This week, the US administration has continued to pressure trading partners like India to curb imports of Russian oil as to sanction the country during its war with Ukraine, cited Expana...
Tariff Talks 2025: Expana’s Weekly Rundown #30
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On October 7, US President Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Carney met in the White House. The possibility a US-Canadian trade deal was a main topic of discussion...
Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #29
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On September 29, the US placed 50% tariffs on imports of timber, lumber, and their derivative products, according to the US Presidential Action.
Also starting October 1, the US will be imposing 100%...
Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #28
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On Tuesday in New York, US President Trump gave remarks to the United Nations General Assembly, via the White House live stream...
Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #27
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US tariff revenue may be used to fund the nation’s farmers, reported Reuters about an interview between Agriculture Secretary Rollins and the Financial Times...
Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #26
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Despite 50% tariffs remaining on Brazil and India, the Indian Prime Minister Modi and US President Trump expressed positivity that the respective trade teams would reach a deal, according to their latest social media...
Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #25
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In the States, a federal appeals court ruled that US President Trump’s use of global tariffs exceeded presidential authority, but they remain active until at least October 14, 2025...
Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #24
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On August 22, Canadian Prime Minister Carney dropped most retaliatory tariffs on US products, beginning September 1, reported Expana in an article that suggested the move may help soothe trade relations...
Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #23
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This week, tariff news took a bit of a backseat to US President Trump’s dealings with Russian President Putin in Alaska—along with President Trump’s meeting with many European leaders...
Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #22
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The timeline for tariff negotiations between the US and China trade teams has been extended for another 90 days—moving the deadline to November 10, according to a White House fact sheet...
Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #21
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On August 6, US President Trump issued an executive order that imposes a new 25% additional ad valorem tariff on imports from India into the States, effective 21 days after the White House announcement...
Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #19
Click to read "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #19."
Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #17
Click to read "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #17."
This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text...
This week, reciprocal tariffs were re-announced in the form of letters from the US Trump administration to trading partners who could not reach a trade deal within the previously granted 90-day pause...
Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #16
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Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #14
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Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #13
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Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #12
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Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #11
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Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #10
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Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #9
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Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #8
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Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #7
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Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #6
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Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #5
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Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #4
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FEATURED STORIES
ANALYSIS: A Long-Awaited Look at the Latest Broiler Hatch Figures
ANALYSIS: US Egg Prices Climb into Thanksgiving but Remain Well Below Year-Ago Levels
ANALYSIS: Wholesale Fresh Turkey Quotations Up 31% Year-Over-Year as Supply Tightens