U.S. Trade Performance and Position in Global Meat, Poultry, and Dairy Exports

The emergence of new animal product suppliers, new and amended trade agreements, changes in consumer preferences, and growth in consumption among developing markets have influenced the global trade performance and position of U.S. agricultural commodities over the past two decades. Exports represent a significant market for U.S. animal agricultural industries and products, with global market volatility and competition directly affecting U.S. producers. The purpose of this study was to determine the position and competitiveness of U.S. meat, poultry, and dairy exports relative to major competitors from 2000 to 2021. The authors conducted an overview analysis of global animal product trade and U.S. competitiveness in aggregate meat and dairy trade, identifying key competitors, markets, trade events, barriers, and agreements. The U.S. market position and export competitiveness of four major animal products—beef, pork, chicken, and select dairy products—were analyzed using trade indices and export shares. Authors also identified influential market and trade events and trade agreements that affected the U.S. position in the four commodity markets. This report contributes to the understanding of how global changes have affected animal commodities.