アメリカ食肉ニュース

アメリカ食肉ニュース

＜米＞　牛・豚肉の3月の輸出これまでの最高を記録

US Beef Exports Remain Strong

08 May 2017

US - US pork and beef exports capped a strong first quarter with excellent March results that included a new record volume for pork, according to statistics released by USDA and compiled by USMEF.

Beef exports totaled 105,310 mt in March, up 18 per cent year-over-year, with value increasing 22 per cent to $588.2 million. First-quarter beef exports were up 15 per cent in volume (292,215 mt) and 19 per cent in value ($1.61 billion).

March exports accounted for 12.5 per cent of total beef production and just under 10 per cent for muscle cuts only, each up slightly from last year. For the first quarter, the percentage of total beef production exported was down slightly from a year ago (12.4 per cent vs. 12.5 per cent) despite an increase for muscle cuts (9.8 per cent vs. 9.4 per cent). Export value per head of fed slaughter averaged $270.14 in March, up 11 per cent from a year ago, while the first-quarter average increased 10 per cent to $267.71 per head.

“Entering 2017 with record-large pork production and an uptick in beef slaughter, we knew this ‘wall of US meat’ presented a challenge for our industry,” said USMEF President and CEO Philip Seng. “So the fact that first-quarter export volumes are higher than a year ago is not surprising, but it’s important to look beyond that – to the higher percentage of production being exported and the strong return on those exports. The US is not just moving more meat internationally because we have more available. Our products are commanding solid prices and winning back market share in many key destinations, even with a strong US dollar and many trade barriers still in place. But our competitors are working every day to reverse this trend, so we must aggressively expand and defend our international customer base.”

Beef exports move higher in Asian and North American markets

March beef exports to Japan increased 41 per cent in volume (28,135 mt) and 39 per cent in value ($167.7 million). This capped a very strong first quarter in which exports jumped 41 per cent (to 74,411 mt) and 42 per cent (to $427.3 million), respectively. This included a 55 per cent increase in chilled beef volume to 33,366 mt, as US beef captured its highest-ever market share in Japan’s high-value chilled sector.

Coming off a record performance in 2016, beef exports to South Korea posted a very strong first quarter, with volume up 23 per cent to 42,551 mt and value increasing 30 per cent to $267.5 million. With US beef continuing to gain momentum in Korea’s retail and restaurant sectors, first-quarter chilled beef exports were up 78 per cent to 8,508 mt.

Other first-quarter highlights (compared to year-ago levels) for US beef included:

· Exports to Mexico posted a solid increase in volume (57,057 mt, up 17 per cent), while value increased 3 per cent to $226.8 million. An important destination for shoulder clods, rounds and other beef end cuts, muscle cut exports to Mexico expanded at an even faster pace, climbing 23 per cent in volume (30,015 mt) and 11 per cent in value ($175.1 million).

· Despite a recent slump in the value of the Canadian dollar, beef exports to Canada have rebounded in 2017, with solid increases in both volume (29,909 mt, up 14 per cent) and value ($190.5 million, up 19 per cent).

· In Taiwan, where US beef captures more than two-thirds per cent of the chilled beef market, exports increased 28 per cent in volume to 9,746 mt and 29 per cent in value to $85.7 million. This included a 10 per cent increase in chilled beef volume to 3,650 mt.

· Beef exports to South America were down 2 per cent in volume (4,919 mt) but increased 16 per cent in value ($23 million), bolstered by a strong performance in Colombia and a recent rebound in Peru. This week USDA also confirmed the arrival of the first US beef shipments to Brazil since a BSE-related suspension was imposed more than 13 years ago. The first significant export volumes for Brazil will likely appear in the May USDA data, which will be available in early July.

· March exports to South Africa (1,107 mt) were the highest since the market opened last year, making it the month’s 10th largest volume destination for US beef. For the first quarter, South Africa ranked 11th at 1,971 mt. Export value was $1.5 million, with most of the volume being beef livers.

TheCattleSite News Desk

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海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜米＞　3月の牛肉輸出がこれまで最高に

CME: Largest Monthly Beef Export Volume Witnessed in March

08 May 2017

US - US red meat and poultry exports were explosive in March, with both export volume and revenue up in double digits compared to year ago levels, reports Steiner Consulting Group, DLR Division, Inc.

Below is a brief summary of the highlights for each species. Keep in mind that the export volume data is in metric ton, product weight basis. USDA/ERS issued its calculations on a carcass weight basis, which will allow us to better compare with the monthly production numbers and implied domestic availability.

US meat supplies have expanded rapidly but a significant portion of that growth went to feed the rest of the world. It is good news for US producers and something that domestic buyers need to consider in their planning decisions. The spike in fed cattle values this spring is a reminder of the risks of staying short bought going into the biggest grilling weekend of the year.

Beef: Exports of fresh, frozen or cooked beef and veal in March were 77,743 MT, 15,407 MT (+24.7 per cent) higher than a year ago. This was the largest monthly beef export volume since June 2014. We think this is evidence that it was a combination of both domestic and export demand which pushed beef packers to ramp up slaughter during the first quarter. Beef export revenue (excluding variety meats) was $510.8 million, almost $100 million (+24.2 per cent) higher than last year. The value of beef shipped in March was not much different than a year ago, implying that it was the increase in availability rather than a cheaper price that drove exports. The two biggest contributors to the growth in beef exports were Japan and S. Korea. Lower slaughter and higher prices for Australian/New Zealand beef supported US beef exports to these markets. Beef and veal exports to Japan in March were 23,222 MT, 43 per cent higher than a year ago. Exports to South Korea at 13,052 MT were 27 per cent higher than last year.

Pork: Weekly export data suggested that pork exports in March would be large and indeed they were. Total shipments of fresh, frozen and cooked pork for the month were 176,574 MT, 22,671 MT (+15 per cent) higher than a year ago. This was another all time record monthly volume, surpassing the record amount that was shipped in November 2016. We will wait for the carcass weight data but it is likely that the percentage of pork exports relative to national production was the largest ever as well. Even more encouraging is that the value of pork exported increased by more than volume shipped, evidence of excellent demand for US pork. Export revenue in March was $483.4 million, $78.7 million (+19 per cent) higher than a year ago. This was only for pork meat products. The value of pork variety meat in March was $79.7 million, a whopping $22.2 million (+39 per cent) higher than last year. The combined value of pork and pork variety meat exports in March increased by more than $100 million. FI hog slaughter in March was 10.6 million head and the $100 million increase in export value contributed about $10 per head of hog processed. Some of this went into higher packer margins but some of it also helped bolster the price the packer paid for hogs during that period. Net hog prices in March averaged around $71/cwt, substantially more than earlier expected. We think this was in part due to the very robust pork export demand.

Broilers: Exports of fresh/frozen broiler meat in March were 269,744 MT, 29,485 MT (+11 per cent) higher than a year ago. One of the biggest growth markets in March was Cuba, with exports there up 12,517 MT (+58 per cent).

TheCattleSite News Desk

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海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜米＞　カーギル社がコロラド州の残りのフィードロットを売却

Cargill to Sell Remaining Cattle Feed Yards in Colorado, Kansas

01 May 2017

US - Cargill has reached an agreement to sell its beef cattle feed yards at Leoti, Kansas, and Yuma, Colorado, to Omaha-based Green Plains Inc., a vertically integrated ethanol producer with existing feed yards at Kismet, Kansas, and Hereford, Texas. The transaction will be finalized once a definitive agreement and regulatory review are complete.

Green Plains will supply cattle to Cargill through a new multiyear agreement. The approximately 90 people currently employed at Cargill’s Colorado and Kansas feed yards will be offered positions with Green Plains. The feed yards being sold have a capacity of approximately 155,000 cattle at any point in time.

“Selling our two remaining feed yards aligns with our protein growth focus by allowing us to redeploy working capital away from cattle feeding operations to other investments,” said John Keating, president of Cargill’s Wichita-based protein business operations and supply chain.

“By partnering with Green Plains in a multiyear supply agreement, the Yuma and Leoti yards will continue to supply cattle to our beef processing facilities at Fort Morgan, Coloradoi, and Dodge City, Kansas, ensuring consistent high-quality beef products for our customers.”

Over the past two years, Cargill has announced approximately $560 million in acquisitions and capital investments to grow its North American protein business.

“We are committed to being the leading protein provider that nourishes people, animals and the planet in a safe, responsible and sustainable way while exceeding the expectations of our customers,” added Mr Keating.

“We have great positive growth momentum and are confident it will continue to accelerate as we continue to help our customers’ and suppliers’ businesses, communities and colleagues thrive,” he concluded.

TheCattleSite News Desk

＜米＞　トランプ政権がナフタ脱退を決定、米国農業会連合はこれを歓迎

Trump Administration Improves NAFTA; Decision Pleases Farm Bureau

01 May 2017

US - The Trump administration has decided to pursue renegotiation over its withdrawal from the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

The American Farm Bureau Federation has thanked the Trump administration this decision. AFBF President Zippy Duvall expressed his gratitude last week.

In his letter, Mr Duvall wrote: "Thank you for your recent decision to choose the path of renegotiation for the North American Free Trade Agreement, rather than withdrawal. Your leadership in reaching out to President Enrique Peña Nieto of Mexico and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada began an important step to finding a path forward for updating this important agreement.

"There are compelling reasons to update and reform NAFTA from agriculture’s perspective, including improvements on biotechnology, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, and geographic indicators. As you know, overall, NAFTA has been overwhelmingly beneficial for farmers, ranchers and associated businesses all across the United States, Canada and Mexico for decades. Walking away from those gains would have been a severe blow to the agricultural sector and we appreciate the path that will allow for reform and enhancement, rather than abandonment of past achievements.

"The NAFTA modernization effort should recognize and build upon the strong gains achieved by US agriculture through tariff elimination, harmonization—or recognition of equivalency—of numerous regulatory issues, and development of integrated supply chains that have arisen due to the agreement. With NAFTA, US farmers and ranchers across the nation have benefited from an increase in annual exports to Mexico and Canada, which have gone from $8.9 billion in 1993 to $38 billion in 2016. We strongly caution against any actions that would lead to a re-imposition of tariffs or other barriers to agricultural trade with our NAFTA partners.

"Trade is critical to the livelihood of the US agricultural sector because it spurs economic growth for our farmers, ranchers and their rural communities. Agriculture supports jobs in the food and agricultural industries and beyond. The fact is, 95 per cent of the world’s consumers live outside of the United States and over 20 per cent of US farm income is based on exports.

"Expanding opportunities for US crop and livestock producers to access international markets will boost farm income in the United States. Just as important as expansion, we need your engagement on behalf of agriculture to protect our current access to foreign markets, which amounts to $134 billion annually.

"Existing trade agreements have proved successful in tearing down tariff and non-tariff trade barriers that hinder US farmers’ and ranchers’ competitiveness and prevent us from taking advantage of consumer demand for high-quality US food and agricultural products throughout the world.

"Trade agreements also provide the highest standard of trade rules, allowing the United States to lead in setting the foundation to establish market-driven and science-based terms of trade and dispute resolution that will directly benefit the US food and agriculture industry. If we surrender the lead, we will fall behind as our competitors aggressively work to establish alternative trade agreements that give their agricultural interests an advantage over our own.

"There are numerous areas in agriculture alone where the agreement can be modernized, ranging from the handling of wheat to dairy issues, from animal health certifications to transparency on agricultural biotechnology. We look forward to working with the administration in developing the full list of topics for discussion.

"As farm income continues to fall to its lowest level since 2009, we urge your immediate attention both to securing and to maintaining solid and fair trade agreements that bring the benefits of agricultural trade to our struggling farm economy."

TheCattleSite News Desk

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海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜米＞　冷凍牛肉在庫数量が減少

CME: USDA Report Highlights Decline in Frozen Beef Inventories

26 April 2017

US - The highlight of the USDA-NASS (National Agriculture Statistic Service) "Cold Storage" report released 24 April was the decline in frozen beef inventories, reports Steiner Consulting Group, DLR Division, Inc.

Total beef in cold storage declined 38 million pounds from the start of the month. Frozen beef inventories in March 2003 registered a similar decline, but no other March going back to the 1970s shows a decline as big as this March. Frozen boneless beef inventories were reduced by 40 million pounds this March, setting a record for a decline during this month. In March 2003, boneless beef inventories were reduced 35 million pounds. Compared to a year earlier, frozen beef stocks were down 4 per cent, with boneless product stocks down 5 per cent.

Frozen pork inventory at the end of March was down 10 per cent from a year earlier, a 17 million pound reduction over the course of the month. The decline was similar to trends in March during 2015 and 2016. Pork belly stocks at the end of March increased by 4 million pounds to 20.5 million pounds, but this was still down 68 per cent from a year earlier. Frozen ham inventories at the end of March were down 6 per cent from a year ago, but boneless ham stocks were up 4 per cent. Bone-in ham stocks during March declined 21 million pounds, the biggest March decline in at least 20 years.

End of March frozen chicken inventory was down 3 per cent from twelve months earlier. Frozen chicken inventories declined 21 million pounds during March with most of the decline accounted for by breast and wing product. Leg quarter freezer holdings were close to unchanged over the course of the month. Wholesale breast meat prices, basis the NE US market, averaged $1.26 in March, up 17 cents from February, encouraging the out-movement of product from freezers. Last year, breast meat prices were unchanged from February to March and frozen breast product inventories increased two million pounds. Frozen chicken inventories are still high relative to historical norms, which will be a factor limiting industry production expansion prospects.

TheCattleSite News Desk

＜米＞　牛枝肉重量の減少がより顕著に

CME: Decline in Cattle Weights More Significant in 2017

24 April 2017

US - Cattle and hog weights have been trending in opposite directions in the last few weeks. Some of this is seasonal but it also may reflect some of the short-term supply issues in both markets, reports Steiner Consulting Group, DLR Division, Inc.

USDA reported that for the week ending 8 April the average dressed carcass, this is both fed and non-fed cattle, was 802 pounds. This is 20 pounds lighter (-2.4 per cent) than a year ago and 22 pounds lighter than the five year average.

Cattle weights normally decline into the spring but the decline this year has been more significant than usual. The five year average carcass for all cattle at the start of the year was around 810 pounds per carcass and by the end of April the five year average stands at 794 pounds, a 2 per cent decline.

This year carcass weights in early January stood at an average 837 pounds and since then have declined 4.2 per cent, more than double the five year average rate. The decline in fed cattle carcass weights has been even more dramatic and has been the primary contributor for the weight reduction.

The average fed steer carcass weight for the latest reported week was 852 pounds, 28 pounds (-3.2 per cent) lower than a year ago and now about 6 pounds less than the five year average. The five year average decline for steer weights between early January and the end of April is around 3.4 per cent.

So far we are down 5.8 per cent for the year and it is very likely we will see further declines in weights through the end of this month. At this point it looks possible that steer weights may eventually get as low as 840-845 by early-May before starting their seasonal upswing.

Heifer weights have declined just as sharply this year. Keep in mind that heifers are smaller than steers. An increase in the percentage of heifers in the slaughter mix (keep an eye on this in the Cattle on Feed report) will also tend to lower overall cattle carcass weights. The average weight of heifers in the latest report was pegged at 792 pounds, 26 pounds (-3.2 per cent) lower than last year.

The implication of the lower weights is both direct and indirect. Lower weights will subtract from beef production. While fed cattle slaughter for the week of 8 April was around 6 per cent higher than the previous year, fed beef production for the week likely increased by less than 3 per cent from the previous year.

And with robust exports and less imports coming in, the amount of beef available to the domestic user likely was less than a year ago. The indirect implication of the fed cattle weights has to do with the supply conditions in the feedyards.

The sharp decline in weights indicates that feedlots are much more current than a year ago and also more current than normal. A current yard does wonders for the testicular fortitude of a feedlot operator.

TheCattleSite News Desk

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海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜米＞　牛肉の国内・輸出需要が上昇中で、肥育日数が減少

CME: Beef Demand from Domestic, Export Interests on the Upswing

10 May 2017

US - Beef demand from both domestic and export interests has been on the upswing since late last year and cattle feeders have not been shy about exploiting the situation, reports Steiner Consulting Group, DLR Division, Inc.

Feedlot marketing rates, as defined by monthly feedlot marketing volumes relative to feedlot inventories on hand longer than 90 days moved above the five year average last November. The accelerated marketing pace has remained intact ever since, leading to bigger drawdowns in market-ready slaughter cattle inventories (see following graph).

Feedlot inventories of cattle on feed over 120 days (in feedlots with 1000+head capacities sampled by USDA-National Agriculture Statistics Service (NASS) on 1 April were at the lowest levels in ten years.

Actual daily slaughter data for steers and heifers during the first two-thirds of April, which is a good indicator of feedlot marketings during a month was up 2 per cent from last year.

A preliminary bead on April placements using weekly feeder cattle auction data from USDA-Agriculture Marketing Service suggests a 2 per cent gain from last year, although total feeder cattle receipts (including direct and video/internet markets) points higher by maybe as much as 10 per cent.

An adjustment also needs to be made for one less work day this April than in April 2016. Combining these numbers with an allowance for normal other disappearance from feedlots during April gives a projected 1 May feedlot inventory close to unchanged from a year earlier.

This exercise translates into April feedlot marketing rates that are as impressive as prior months. In March, feedlot marketings as a per cent of cattle on feed longer than 120 days was 55 per cent.

The prior high during the last ten years was in 2011 at 49 per cent. The prospective marketing rate for April would be 52 per cent.

The prior peak marketing rate during the past ten years was 49 per cent in 2014. Under this scenario, inventories of cattle on feed over 120 days declines by 1 per cent from the prior month and is down 11 per cent from a year earlier.

Feedlot inventories on feed longer than 90 days would be down 4 per cent from a year earlier but up 170,000 head from a month earlier. Over the course of 2007-2016, 90 day feedlot inventories averaged a 45,000 head decline during April.

The 1 May 90-day cattle inventory change from a year ago of 4 per cent compares with a 6 per cent decline on 1 April.

The trend that could possibly be starting to surface in 90 day feedlot inventories would flow through to similar developments for 120 day feedlot inventories (i.e. slaughter-ready cattle) by late spring and summer.

This is a normal seasonal trend for the feedlot industry. The discount between the spot choice cattle price and live cattle futures values should work to encourage beef demand to accommodate the increasing supply of cattle.

TheCattleSite News Desk

＜米＞　牛肉輸出20％増、輸入17%減少

CME: Beef Export Tonnage Up 20%, Imports Down 17%

11 April 2017

US - To explain cattle prices during the first quarter of this year in terms of fundamental market forces, we need to look at both seasonal (e.g. key changes compared to the fourth quarter of 2016) and also year-over-year market supply and demand aspects, write Steiner Consulting Group, DLR Division, Inc.

From January into late March of this year cattle prices generally increased, which is a rather normal seasonal occurrence. Still, cattle prices for the first quarter were the lowest for the first three months of any year since 2011.

Two key seasonal factors came together to raise fed cattle prices during the first quarter of this year:

1. Seasonally smaller beef production (data are reported by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service). Comparing 2017’s first quarter commercial beef production with the fourth quarter of 2016 the drop was a rather normal 4.9 per cent. That same comparison for a year ago (first quarter of 2016 versus 2015’s fourth quarter) the decline was only 2.9 per cent. As a baseline, the prior 10-year average was down 4.5 per cent.

2. Seasonally lower packer gross margins. From setting record high monthly levels in much of 2016, the calculated margin, that is the live-to-cutout price spread (including the byproduct value), declined significantly quarter-over-quarter. That margin returned to historical levels in early 2017.

On a year-over-year basis, the change in US net trade balance was a key market factor. That is, US beef exports were higher year-over-year and imports dropped. The exact numbers were not available at the time this article was written. Actual data compiled and released by the USDA’s Foreign Agriculture Service were available through February. For the January-February timeframe, compared to a year earlier, beef export tonnage increased 20 per cent, while imports fell by 17 per cent.

Projected US commercial cattle slaughter for the first quarter was 7.7 million head, the largest for the quarter since 2012’s. That was a 7.3 per cent increase compared to January-March of 2016. Compared to a year ago, average dressed weight was down 1.1 per cent. So, US beef production was 6.1 per cent above a year earlier. Importantly, due to a year-over-year increase in beef export tonnage and a decline in imports, US per capita beef disappearance (based on preliminary data) only increased about 1.2 per cent for the first quarter.

Fed steers, using the 5-market average price reported by USDA’s Market News Division of the Agricultural Marketing Service (USDA-AMS) averaged $122.97 per cwt. in this year’s first quarter. That was, down 8.8 per cent from a year ago. However, compared to the depressed levels of the 2016’s fourth quarter, of 2016, fed cattle prices during January-March averaged were over $15.00 per cwt. higher (up 14.2 per cent).

Yearling and calf prices were supported by higher fed cattle prices and the associated rebound, finally, of cattle feeding returns back into the black. For the first quarter of 2017, the Livestock Marketing Information Center (LMIC) calculations put estimated cattle feeding returns at the highest average for any calendar year since the last quarter of 2003.

In the Southern Plains, for 2017’s first quarter, USDA-AMS reports showed that steers weighing 700-to 800-pounds and 500-to 600-pounds averaged $132.88 per cwt. and $157.38, respectively. Yearling and calf prices were below a year ago (down $27.18 per cwt. for 700-to 800-pound steers and dropping $38.35 for 500-to 600-pound steer calves). As with fed cattle, yearling and calf prices increased compared to late 2016’s, rising quarter-over-quarter by $3.81 (up 3.0 per cent) for steers weighing 700-to 800-pounds and up $18.94 per cwt. (increasing 13.7 per cent) for 500-to 600-pound animals.

TheCattleSite News Desk

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海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜米＞　2月も牛肉・豚肉とも輸出は好調

Continued Strong Pace for US Beef Exports in February

11 April 2017

US - February results for US pork and beef exports were well above year-ago levels, with pork exports posting the strongest February volume on record, according to statistics released by USDA and compiled by USMEF.

Beef exports totaled 90,417 mt in February, up 9 per cent year-over-year, with value up 16 per cent to $508.5 million. Through February, beef exports were up 13 per cent in volume (186,905 mt) and 17 per cent in value ($1.02 billion).

February exports accounted for 12.6 per cent of total beef production and 10.1 per cent for muscle cuts only, which was steady with last year. January-February ratios were also fairly steady at 12.4 per cent and 9.8 per cent, respectively. Export value per head of fed slaughter averaged $276.96 in February, up 13 per cent from a year ago, while the January-February average was up 10 per cent to $266.34 per head.

“With trade deficits being a hot topic of conversation, especially with countries such as Mexico, China and Japan, it’s important to highlight the sectors in which US products are competitive throughout the world and exports are thriving,” said USMEF President and CEO Philip Seng. “The red meat sector is certainly in that category, as exports have helped fuel growth in the US industry and, in turn, larger US production has opened further export opportunities and generated positive returns for the entire supply chain.”

Chilled beef to Japan, Korea and Taiwan continues to drive export growth

Japan continued to solidify its position as the leading volume and value market for US beef, with February exports climbing 48 per cent from a year ago in volume (23,789 mt) and 55 per cent in value ($134.3 million). Through February, exports to Japan were up 41 per cent in volume (46,276 mt) and 44 per cent in value ($259.6 million). This included a 60 per cent increase in chilled beef volume to 19,404 mt. Japanese import data showed that US beef overtook Australian beef in the first two months of the year, with US market share climbing to 45.6 per cent while Australia’s dropped to 44 per cent.

Strong momentum continued for US beef in Korea, where February exports increased 11 per cent to 13,093 mt valued at $86 million (up 26 per cent). This pushed the two-month totals up 23 per cent in volume (28,287 mt) and 31 per cent in value ($177.6 million). Chilled exports through February were up 95 per cent to 5,384 mt.

In Taiwan, February exports jumped 33 per cent from a year ago to 2,886 mt, while value increased 26 per cent to $25.3 million. Through February, exports were up 28 per cent in volume (6,477 mt) and 25 per cent in value ($55.1 million). US beef holds 70 per cent of the chilled beef market in Taiwan, the highest of any Asian market. Through February, chilled exports to Taiwan increased 12 per cent to 2,479 mt.

Other highlights for US beef included:

· Exports within North America are off to a solid start in 2017, with January-February exports to Mexico increasing 14 per cent from a year ago in volume (36,235 mt) and 3 per cent in value ($147.4 million). Exports to Canada are showing signs of a rebound, with volume up 11 per cent to 19,446 mt and value up 18 per cent to $123.5 million.

· Beef exports to two key South American markets increased significantly in value through February, with exports to Chile up 22 per cent year-over-year to $8.9 million and exports to Peru up 68 per cent to $4.3 million. The increase in Chile was achieved despite a 16 per cent decline in volume (1,417 mt) while volume to Peru was up 16 per cent to 1,130 mt.

· A rebound in the Philippines and continued growth in Vietnam pushed January-February beef exports to the ASEAN region up 33 per cent in volume (4,774 mt) and 19 per cent in value ($27.3 million). Exports to Indonesia, which set a value record of $39.4 million last year, are off to a slow start in 2017 with value through February down 48 per cent to $3.5 million.

· Strong growth to most Asian markets helped offset a slowdown to Hong Kong, where January-February volume was down 21 per cent to 16,131 mt, valued at $104.7 million (down 12 per cent).

TheCattleSite News Desk

＜米＞　豚屠畜頭数は昨年比6.8％のアップ

CME: Hog Slaughter During W14 Up 6.8% Compared to Previous Year

11 April 2017

US - Hog slaughter for week ending 8 April was 2.301 million head, 6.8 per cent higher than the same week a year ago, according to Steiner Consulting Group, DLR Division, Inc.

This is the sixth consecutive week that hog slaughter has surpassed 2.3 million head and since the start of March hog slaughter has averaged almost 6 per cent above year ago and slightly above the levels indicated by the 1 March Hog Inventory survey.

Pork production last week was 489.7 million pounds, 6.2 per cent higher than a year ago. In the last four reported weeks, pork production was a total 1.973 billion pounds, almost 120 million pounds (+6.4 per cent) more than the previous year.

While pork exports were excellent in the first three months of the year, it has not been enough in our view to absorb the bulk of this increase. More pork has had to go through domestic channels, which in turn has kept prices in check even as demand generally starts to improve into the spring.

Also we think the sharp spike in the value of pork bellies earlier in the year negatively impacted retail features for the spring and we are now seeing that playing out. The following chart illustrates the effect that the change in the value of various primal has on the overall value of the cutout.

On Friday USDA quoted the value of pork cutout (a weighted average price of all pork cuts sold) at $75.28/cwt, $6/cwt or 7.4 per cent lower than where prices were at the end of February. What accounts for that decline? All of it is due to lower pork belly prices.

The value of the belly primal on Friday was quoted at $122.72/cwt, $38/cwt (-24 per cent) since late February. Since the belly primal accounts for about 16 per cent of the total carcass, the decline in belly prices has subtracted a little over $6/cwt from the cutout value.

Interestingly, prices for other items have been fairly steady since then and also relatively steady compared to a year ago. Indeed, the comparisons to a year ago are quite telling considering the large supplies coming to market .

The loin primal on Friday was $75.47/cwt, 2 per cent lower than a year ago while the ham primal at $55.74/cwt is actually 2 per cent higher than what it was last year. Also positive for the pork market so far has been the performance of pork trimmings and picnics.

Both lean and fat pork trim prices have been above year ago levels to this point, an indication of still very robust demand for hot dogs, sausages and other such items.

The erosion in the value of the pork cutout since late February has negatively impacted packer margins but, in our view, at $37/cwt they still remain in positive territory. Discussion of margins always goes to the assumptions about operating costs but the gross margin calculations show packer margins at this point are almost as good as they were last year and above what we see as needed to break even (between $25-$30 per head).

As a result, packers continue to push as many hogs through as they can, with slaughter last Tuesday at 449,000 head. Slaughter should be near full capacity during this week but we expect a smaller slaughter next Monday because of Easter celebrations.

Last year Easter Sunday was on 27 March and the following Monday hog slaughter was 298,000 head, down from around 434,000 that would have been a normal level. We suspect a shortfall of a similar amount again next Monday but most of it likely will be made up on Saturday. The net effect of the holiday will likely be limited in terms of the weekly slaughter.

ThePigSite News Desk

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海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜米＞　牛肉輸出20％増、輸入17%減少

CME: Beef Export Tonnage Up 20%, Imports Down 17%

11 April 2017

Two key seasonal factors came together to raise fed cattle prices during the first quarter of this year:

3. Seasonally smaller beef production (data are reported by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service). Comparing 2017’s first quarter commercial beef production with the fourth quarter of 2016 the drop was a rather normal 4.9 per cent. That same comparison for a year ago (first quarter of 2016 versus 2015’s fourth quarter) the decline was only 2.9 per cent. As a baseline, the prior 10-year average was down 4.5 per cent.

4. Seasonally lower packer gross margins. From setting record high monthly levels in much of 2016, the calculated margin, that is the live-to-cutout price spread (including the byproduct value), declined significantly quarter-over-quarter. That margin returned to historical levels in early 2017.

TheCattleSite News Desk

＜米＞　2月も牛肉・豚肉とも輸出は好調

Continued Strong Pace for US Beef Exports in February

11 April 2017

Chilled beef to Japan, Korea and Taiwan continues to drive export growth

Other highlights for US beef included:

· Strong growth to most Asian markets helped offset a slowdown to Hong Kong, where January-February volume was down 21 per cent to 16,131 mt, valued at $104.7 million (down 12 per cent).

TheCattleSite News Desk

#文書の先頭

海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜米＞　豚屠畜頭数は昨年比6.8％のアップ

CME: Hog Slaughter During W14 Up 6.8% Compared to Previous Year

11 April 2017

US - Hog slaughter for week ending 8 April was 2.301 million head, 6.8 per cent higher than the same week a year ago, according to Steiner Consulting Group, DLR Division, Inc.

Both lean and fat pork trim prices have been above year ago levels to this point, an indication of still very robust demand for hot dogs, sausages and other such items.

ThePigSite News Desk

#文書の先頭

海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜米・タイ＞　タイ向け牛肉輸出アクセスが拡大：屠畜日4月1日以降から対象

US Beef Gains Expanded Access to Thailand

11 April 2017

THAILAND - Bone-in and boneless beef from cattle of any age are now eligible for Thailand, as long as the slaughter date is on or after 1 April 2017.

For product derived from cattle slaughtered on or after this date, all USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) Export Verification (EV) Programme requirements have been removed.

“Thailand enforced its boneless conditions with exceptional rigor,” explained Joel Haggard, USMEF senior vice president for the Asia Pacific.

“We can remember entire shipments of premium items being rejected based on the finding of a single millimeter-long chip.

"That’s hopefully behind us now, with the new rules allowing boneless and bone-in cuts.

"Although it is likely to remain a relatively small market for US beef, more exporters will now be interested in serving Thailand, where there are a number of foodservice and retail operations that want to feature American beef.”

Exporters should note that beef offal and offal products remain ineligible for Thailand, and USMEF is seeking clarification on which items (for example, skirts and diaphragms) will be classified as offal by Thailand’s Department of Livestock Development.

For cattle slaughtered before 1 April, the boneless-only requirement is still in effect, as are all other EV Programme requirements.

TheCattleSite News Desk

＜米・タイ＞　タイ向け牛肉輸出アクセスが拡大：屠畜日4月1日以降から対象

US Beef Gains Expanded Access to Thailand

11 April 2017

THAILAND - Bone-in and boneless beef from cattle of any age are now eligible for Thailand, as long as the slaughter date is on or after 1 April 2017.

For product derived from cattle slaughtered on or after this date, all USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) Export Verification (EV) Programme requirements have been removed.

“Thailand enforced its boneless conditions with exceptional rigor,” explained Joel Haggard, USMEF senior vice president for the Asia Pacific.

“We can remember entire shipments of premium items being rejected based on the finding of a single millimeter-long chip.

"That’s hopefully behind us now, with the new rules allowing boneless and bone-in cuts.

For cattle slaughtered before 1 April, the boneless-only requirement is still in effect, as are all other EV Programme requirements.

TheCattleSite News Desk

＜米＞　1-3月期の牛肉生産量・価格ともに急上昇

CME: Beef Production During Q1 Expected to Rise

29 March 2017

US - Choice grade carcass beef values have taken off like a rocket during the last month, writes Steiner Consulting Group, DLR Division, Inc.

Last week, the Choice beef cutout value averaged $2.23 per pound. A year earlier, Choice beef prices averaged $2.27 for the same week, but note the volatility depicted last year in the graphic. If, and it’s a big if, Choice product prices hold steady this week, this will represent the first year-over-year increase in the Choice beef cutout since the week of 3 July 2015.

Beef production this quarter is expected to be up 4-5 per cent from the first quarter of 2016. An increase in beef exports along with less imported beef create a situation where beef availability in the US is actually down from a year ago, however, which is a price-supportive factor in the marketplace.

The Livestock Marketing Information Center is expecting per capita beef consumption this quarter to be down 0.4 per cent from a year ago. The Choice beef cutout value during the first quarter of 2016 was $2.23 per pound. So far this quarter it has averaged $2.01, about a 10 per cent decline from a year ago.

This would be consistent with traditional price quantity relationships where a 5 per cent change in the quantity of a product leads to percentage change in prices of twice the magnitude in the opposite direction (known as a price flexibility in economic jargon).

The recent price-quantity relationships indicate that the market has not been that sensitive, that is up until the last few weeks. The bounce in beef value back to what was seen a year ago brings some consistency back to the relationship between availability (i.e. per capita consumption) that is expected to be down from a year ago this quarter and current prices that are on track to finish the quarter slightly above 2016’s.

The intensity of the price rally for beef during the last month is a notable contrast to distinct downtrend last year, that finally bottomed-out last October. Cattle marketings to slaughter plants started out 2016 increasing by 3 per cent from the first quarter of 2015 and finished 2016 with a 9 per cent from the last quarter of 2015.

Beef cutout values in the final quarter of 2016 were down 10 per cent year-over-year, a modest decline relative to the increase in cattle marketings. The trend in reduced US beef imports and expanding exports was one factor limiting the beef price decline to only 10 per cent.

Currently, the outlook for cattle slaughter in the upcoming quarter (April-June) shows a 5 per cent increase relative to the spring quarter of 2016. Per capita beef supplies, integrating the effects of beef import and exports, should be up 2 per cent from last year.

These beef quantities suggest that the Choice beef cutout value in the upcoming quarter will probably be slightly less than the $2.19 average value posted for the spring quarter of 2016, unless consumer demand for beef improves in order to pay for more supply at a higher price.

TheCattleSite News Desk

#文書の先頭

海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜米＞　牛業界がトランプ大統領に要望；4月の習近平との対談時に米産牛肉の輸入再開を

Beef Industry Urges President Trump to Help Get US Beef Back into China

29 March 2017

US - On Monday, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association today sent a coalition letter to President Donald Trump, urging him to raise the restoration of US beef access to China when he meets with Chinese President Xi Jinping in April. Leaders from the US Meat Export Federation and the North American Meat Institute also signed the letter.

American beef producers have been denied access to China – a $2.6 billion import market - since 2003. Last fall China announced that it had lifted its ban on imports of US beef, but attempts since then to negotiate the technical terms of access have been unsuccessful.

“We believe that access to the large and growing Chinese beef market is essential to the future health of the US beef industry,” read the letter, which was signed by NCBA’s CEO, Kendal Frazier. “We understand that you have many important issues to discuss with President Xi, but we strongly encourage you to take this important opportunity to convey the urgent need for China to reopen its market to US beef.”

In 2016, American beef producers sold $6.3 billion worth of US beef to customers around the world, with three of the industry's top foreign markets located in Asia.

You can view the letter sent to President Trump by clicking here.

TheCattleSite News Desk

＜米＞　2月の商用牛屠畜頭数が3.5％増加

CME: Total Commercial Cattle Slaughter in February Up 3.5%

27 March 2017

US - USDA issued its monthly production statistics for beef and pork, reports Steiner Consulting Group, DLR Division, Inc.

The numbers give us one more piece of data to build the demand picture for red meat in February. It is always important to look at these supply numbers in the broader context of supply flows through the economy rather than as individual data points.

Also important is to recognize that calendar differences often will tend to skew the numbers so one should look past the headline and understand what was the true availability in the domestic market. Below are some of the highlights and implications for beef.

Total commercial cattle slaughter in February was 2.369 million head, 3.5 per cent higher than the previous year. But there was one less slaughter day last month. Average slaughter last month was 118,460 head/day, 8.7 per cent higher than in February 2016.

Steer slaughter in February averaged 60,070 head/day, 9 per cent more than last year while heifer slaughter at 31,730 head was 7.8 per cent higher. While the increase in heifer slaughter slowed down slightly last month, in the last six months the number of heifers coming to market has averaged about 12 per cent above the previous year.

Cow slaughter also was higher last month, averaging 22,765 head/slaughter day or 7.6 per cent more than the same period a year ago. Larger slaughter numbers bolstered overall beef production but output did not increase by the same degree due to lighter carcass weights.

Total beef production for the month was 1.934 billion pounds, 48.7 million pounds more than in February 2016. Average daily beef output last month was 96.7 million pounds, about 7.7 per cent higher than what it was a year ago. But more beef produced does not always mean that there is more beef available for the US domestic consumer.

To come up with that number, we need to adjust for the supply of beef trading in and out of the US and adjust for the starting and ending cold stocks. Trade data is not yet available but we estimate that US beef imports were down about 11 per cent last month while exports were up 15 per cent.

The shift in trade flows reduced domestic availability by about 52 million pounds, more than offsettng the production increase. End users appear to have countered that by relying on their cold storage stocks.

According to our calculations (which will be revised when trade data comes out) total disappearance in February was 1.978 billion pounds, just 0.3 per cent less than a year ago. Adjusting for 21.92 slaughter days in a month, disappearance was 5.3 per cent higher than last year or 4.4 per cent on a per capita basis.

TheCattleSite News Desk

#文書の先頭

海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜米＞　ジョージア州でローパソ鳥フル発生

Bird Flu Discovered in Georgia

29 March 2017

US - A flock of chickens at a commercial poultry breeding operation located in Chattooga County, Georgia, has tested positive for H7, presumptive low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI).

This is the first confirmation of avian influenza in domestic poultry in Georgia. The Georgia Department of Agriculture notes that avian influenza does not pose a risk to the food supply, and no affected animals entered the food chain. The risk of human infection with avian influenza during poultry outbreaks is very low.

The virus was identified during routine pre-sale screening for the commercial facility and was confirmed as H7 avian influenza by the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa. As a precaution the affected flock has been depopulated. Officials are testing and monitoring other flocks within the surveillance area and no other flocks have tested positive or experienced any clinical signs.

The announcement follows similar confirmations from Alabama, Kentucky and Tennessee in recent weeks. The Georgia case is considered a presumptive low pathogenic avian influenza because the flock did not show any signs of illness. While LPAI is different from HPAI, control measures are under way as a precautionary measure. Wild birds are the source of the virus. Avian influenza virus strains often occur naturally in wild birds, and can infect wild migratory birds without causing illness.

“Poultry is the top sector of our number one industry, agriculture, and we are committed to protecting the livelihoods of the many farm families that are dependent on it,” said Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Gary W. Black. “In order to successfully do that, it is imperative that we continue our efforts of extensive biosecurity.”

The state has already made an official order on the subject of poultry as a preventative measure to stop the spreading of the disease.

Owners of poultry flocks are encouraged to closely observe their birds and report a sudden increase in the number of sick birds or bird deaths to the state veterinarian’s office at 855- 491-1432. More information can also be obtained at www.ga-ai.org.

ThePoultrySite News Desk

＜米・加＞　北米自由貿易協定の再協議で、米の食品加工業者は加産製品のストップを懸念

NAFTA Renegotiation Could Jeopardies US Food Processors Access to Canadian Products

29 March 2017

US & CANADA - The Research Lead with Agri-Food Economic Systems says US food processors need to be sensitive to the potential impact on them of reduced access to imported Canadian products under a renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement, Bruce Cochrane writes.

Agri-Food Economic Systems has released an Independent Agri-Food Policy Note which looks at the prospects for the US agri-food industry under a NAFTA renegotiation.

Dr Al Mussell, the Research Lead with Agri-Food Economic Systems, observes the US food processing industry has benefitted from imports of Canadian bulk products, primarily grain, and intermediate imports such as ground grain and livestock.

Dr Al Mussell-Agri-Food Economic Systems

I think the reality is the US wouldn't be able to support its food processing industries at the level they've been able to had they not had access to Canadian products.

Just one example we went through in the policy note is oats.

The US imports oats out of particularly Manitoba, probably elsewhere in western Canada directly down into breakfast cereal manufacturing plants in the United States.

The US is not a large oat producer of its own.

Whether or not it could sustain those kinds of industries, understanding that oats is a big part of what goes into breakfast cereal is perhaps an open question, but probably pretty difficult for them without access to Canada.

The same thing on pork products, other red meat products.

We know that the US imports a significant volume of Canadian cattle and hogs for processing in their plants and these products, they turn around and export back to Canada as well as elsewhere as ready to eat products.

That's value added that's added in the US.

Dr. Mussell says, depending on how the NAFTA renegotiation proceeds, US food processors can't assume they'll continue to have the same kind of access to Canadian products that they've had in the past.

ThePigSite News Desk

＜米＞　牛畜産業者は米通商代表部に、各国の貿易障壁の撤廃を要求

Beef Producers Want USTR That Breaks Down Barriers

20 March 2017

US - Last week (14 March), the US Senate Finance Committee held a hearing regarding the nomination of Robert Lighthizer to head the Office of United States Trade Representative.

According to the Committee, Mr Lighthizer previously worked for foreign governments, thereby making him ineligible to be appointed as the United States Trade Representative, pursuant to the Lobbying Disclosure Act.

However, according to the Committee, "Mr Lighthizer has an understanding about the impact of unfair trade on America’s manufacturers and workers that could be a valuable asset for our country.

"The country needs a USTR that will stand up for our rights on behalf of American workers and businesses at the WTO, and that will partner with Customs and Border Protection, the Department of Commerce, and the full range of agencies responsible for trade enforcement to crack down on trade cheats hurting workers and businesses here at home."

In response to the Finance Committee's hearing, Craig Uden, president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, released a statement saying, "In order for America’s ranching families to remain competitive, we need a government that prioritises market access and tears down barriers to trade in leading global markets.

"The role of the US Trade Representative has become critically more important in recent years, especially as our competitors seek to secure economic advantages through trade agreements with our top export markets, such as Japan.

"Likewise, we need a trade representative who understands the importance of abiding by rules-based trade, who is willing to rigorously enforce agreements with our trading partners, and who will work with the US beef industry to address our many unresolved barriers to trade.

"We look forward to learning more about Mr Lighthizer’s views on these important issues during the confirmation process."

National Pork Producers Council Ken Maschoff also issued a statement regarding the hearing. Mr Mascoff said, "NPPC commends Robert Lighthizer, nominee for ambassador of the Office of the US Trade Representative, for telling the Senate Finance Committee that he places high importance on agricultural trade, and we look forward to working with him and the rest of the president’s trade team to preserve and expand foreign market access for US pork.

"Access to international markets is the No. 1 priority of US pork producers. We are a vibrant industry, with five new packing plants coming on stream in the next couple of years, and the United States has been the top global exporter of pork, on average, the past 10 years. All of this is because of trade deals.

"It wasn’t until 1995 – after the Uruguay Round and the NAFTA – that our industry became a net exporter, and 20 US free trade agreements later, we are now an export juggernaut. The flip side of that, however, is we now are very dependent on export markets, with 25 per cent of our production being exported. Given global income growth and demographics, we know the future health of our industry is tied inextricably to preserving and expanding international market access.

"At our recent annual meeting, producer after producer expressed concern about the financial bloodbath they would experience if we have a disruption in pork exports to Mexico. Further, producers expressed concern about losing market share in the Asia-Pacific region as the EU and other nations close trade agreements with Japan and other countries in the region.

"His statement on agricultural trade gives us confidence that as USTR ambassador, Bob Lighthizer will work to create export opportunities for America’s farmers and ranchers."

TheCattleSite News Desk

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海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜米＞　牛部分肉価格が黒字に

CME: Boxed Beef Prices Show Packer Margins Back in Black

17 March 2017

US - The rally in boxed beef prices has once again pushed implied packer margins back in the black although the extent of beef packer profits is always a point of debate and varies depending on the assumptions you make on operating costs, etc, according to Steiner Consulting Group, DLR Division, Inc.

The comprehensive beef cutout value for the week ending March 10 was quoted by USDA at $207.87/cwt, a 4 per cent jump from the previous week and now 9 per cent higher than it was four weeks ago.

More than half of the increase is due to higher prices for steak cuts but also a sharp recovery in the value of 50CL beef trim (ground beef, hot dog demand) The average calculated feedlot price for last week is around $200/cwt on a dressed basis.

The way we calculated that number is by adding up the sales of all cattle traded on a negotiated basis, both on a live and dressed basis, and converting all to the same dressed value. The value of the drop credit for last week was quoted at $11.91/cwt on a live basis or $162 head.

Drop credit values have shown steady improvement in recent months and the increase has added an extra $12.4/head to the packer margin compared to the same period a year ago. Adding up the revenue side (cutout value + drop credit) and subtracting the cost side (cost of cattle) yields a gross margin of around $225 head.

Estimates as to what the packer needs to get to cover operating costs vary, some using $150/head and others thinking it is close to $200/head. We really don’t want to be in the guessing game and have no particular insight here.

Still, it appears to us that the latest numbers do indicate that a) packer margins by most measures are back in the black, and b) they are currently running substantially higher than last year when the gross margin was almost half of what it is today.

The improvement in packer margins should make packers more willing buyers than a year ago at a time when feedlot supplies are considerably more current. But that is not the only thing that’s positive in the current market.

One of the insights included in the USDA beef comprehensive cutout report is the volume of beef that has already been sold for future delivery. As the top chart shows, the volume of forward sales improved significantly in the last quarter of last year and it continues to run well above year-ago levels so far in the first quarter.

The report showed that for the week ending 10 March packers had sold 908 loads for delivery between early April and mid-May. During the same week last year sales for this time period were around 633 loads. But because week to week volumes move around a lot, a four-week moving average makes more sense.

At this time the four-week moving average is at 956 loads/week, 41 per cent higher than the same period last year. Sales for time periods past 60 days are also running about 17 per cent higher than last year. In other words, packers have been more successful in selling beef forward, something you want to see if you expect an increase in cattle supplies/availability.

Also interesting/important is that packers are selling more beef into export markets. We see these higher sales in the weekly export data and they are also reflected in the comprehensive cutout report.

For the last four weeks, packers sold an average of 889 loads/week for export, about 34 per cent more than they did for the same period last year. Export sales are volatile but so far this year the pace of shipments has been quite robust, helping clean up spot supplies and contributing to the overall improvement in fed cattle prices.

TheCattleSite News Desk

＜米＞　アラバマ州でハイパソ鳥フル発生か

Alabama Officials Investigate Avian Flu Detections

17 March 2017

US - Alabama agriculture officials are investigating suspected avian flu outbreaks at three locations in the northern part of the state, close to where H7N9 outbreaks — one highly pathogenic and one low pathogenic — were recently reported on two Tennessee farms.

State officials in Alabama were already on high alert for avian flu, because parts of the state were in the control zone that had been placed around the Tennessee outbreak area. Alabama authorities have not said what avian flu strain is suspected, but they noted that samples are on their way the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa, for further testing.

Alabama's Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) announced a stop movement for certain poultry.

Tony Frazier, DVM, Alabama's state veterinarian, said in a statement, "With three investigations of avian influenza in north Alabama on three separate premises we feel that the stop movement order is the most effective way to implement biosecurity for all poultry in our state."

Farm, backyard flock, flea market involved

One of the suspected outbreaks involves a commercial breeder operation in Lauderdale County, located in the far northwestern corner of the state where birds haven't shown significant mortality. Another is a backyard flock in Madison County near Huntsville. Both counties are on the Tennessee border.

Officials said the third location is the TaCo-Bet Trade Day flea market in Scottsboro, Alabama, in Jackson County, about 40 miles east of Huntsville. As part of Alabama's highly pathogenic avian flu preparedness response plan, poultry technicians from the USDA collected samples from birds on the premises on 12 March, which indicated suspected avian influenza.

Amy Belcher, spokeswoman for the ADAI, said there are no epidemiologic connections between the outbreak locations in Tennessee and in Alabama, Reuters reported today. Ray Hilburn, associate director of the Alabama Poultry and Egg Association, told the news service that infected birds have been culled, but he didn't say how many.

The ADAI said it and the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service are working together closely on a joint incident response.

According to the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, the state is the nation's second largest broiler producer, part of its $15 billion poultry and egg industry.

ThePoultrySite News Desk

#文書の先頭

海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜ﾃﾞﾝﾏｰｸ・米･ﾌﾞﾗｼﾞﾙ＞　ﾃﾞﾆｯｼｭｸﾗｳﾝ社が米のﾌﾟﾗﾑﾛｰｽﾞ社をブラジルのJBS社に売却

Danish Crown Sells Plumrose USA

15 March 2017

DENMARK - Danish Crown has signed an agreement to sell its American subsidiary Plumrose USA to Brazilian-based JBS, which is the world’s largest meat-processing company. The sale is based on the 4WD strategy, under which Danish Crown has decided to focus its business on Northern Europe and Asia.

Group CEO Jais Valeur, Danish Crown, said: "The focus of Danish Crown’s 4WD strategy is to lead our home markets in Northern Europe, to further grow our positions in Asia and to expand our leading position in casings globally.

"We have therefore decided to sell Plumrose USA. I am certain that JBS, with its wide presence and access to raw materials in North America, is a perfect match for Plumrose USA and will help fortify its business for the benefit of many loyal customers.

"Plumrose USA is an excellent company, which has made significant progress in recent years, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Plumrose USA management and employees for their committed efforts."

For more than 80 years, Plumrose USA has been a supplier of quality products to consumers across the USA. In 1932, the company started production of sliced cooked ham, and over the years it has developed into a company offering a wide selection of products including premium bacons, packaged deli meats, quality deli counter hams, cooked ribs and canned hams.

CEO Andre Nogueira, JBS USA Food Company, said: "Plumrose USA is a highly respected business with an outstanding professional team, a strong portfolio of branded cooked and prepared foods, and first-class, well-invested assets in strategic geographic locations that complement our current business structure.

"We are excited to welcome the more than 1,200 dedicated team members of Plumrose USA to JBS and look forward to building on the legacy of high-quality products and outstanding service established by Danish Crown."

Four months ago, Danish Crown launched its ambitious 4WD strategy with the predominant aim of growing its four home markets in Denmark, Sweden, Poland and the UK.

The strategy includes plans to expand exports to Asia in general, and to establish a production facility in China based on Danish pork. Also, Danish Crown is focused on achieving global leadership in selected categories.

Mr Valeur said: "Selling Plumrose USA is a step forward in achieving the long-term goals of the 4WD strategy. We have strengthened our financial capacity quite substantially.

"This gives us extensive room for manoeuvre and for taking part in what I would call a necessary consolidation of the food sector in our four home markets."

In the most recent financial year, Plumrose USA posted revenue of DKK 3.4 billion. The company manages five plants and two distribution centres with 1,200 employees across the USA. JBS pays DKK 1.6 billion to acquire Plumrose USA.

The sale of Plumrose USA to JBS is contingent on approval by the US competition authorities.

ThePigSite News Desk

＜加・米＞　加の牛飼養頭数は昨年比0.2％増：ようやく減少に歯止めがかかるか？　輸出先の米にとっても関心事

CME: Total Canadian Cattle Inventory as of 1 January 0.2% Larger Than a Year Ago

16 March 2017

US - Last week Statistics Canada issued the results of its semi-annual survey of cattle operations and an estimate of the inventory of cattle at various stages of production, according to Steiner Consulting Group, DLR Division, Inc.

Canada is an important supplier of both cattle and beef into the US market and production trends there have a direct impact on the US cattle market as well. Key highlights follow:

The total cattle inventory in Canada as of 1 January 2017 is currently estimated at 12.065 million head, just 0.2 per cent larger than it was the previous year. The numbers for 2015 and 2016 were revised higher, however, with the biggest revision impacting 2016, increasing from 11.920 million to 12.035 million. The combined inventory of US and Canadian cattle as of 1 January 2017 was 103.948 million head, 2.85 per cent larger than the previous year. If we add to this an estimated 16.5 million cattle in Mexico (latest USDA est.), this implies a combined North American cattle population of 120.5 million head, 2.4 per cent larger than the previous year. The gains have almost all come from a larger supply in the US market, with inventories in Canada and Mexico almost unchanged from 2015 levels.

While record profits encouraged US cow‐calf producers to expand in the last two years, that has not been the case in Canada. The beef cow herd as of 1 January 2017 was estimated at 3.834 million head, almost unchanged from a year ago (just 7,000 head larger) and down 1.450 million head (‐27 per cent) from the peak in 2005.

Even the modest herd expansion impetus that we noted in the last 18 months has not translated into a larger breeding stock. The number of heifers held back for beef cow herd replacement actually has been increasing (modestly) since 2010. In 2016, Canadian cow‐calf operators retained 547,000 heifers for beef cow herd replacement, the largest such number since 2008 and 20,000 head (+3.8 per cent) more than the year before.

And yet, the beef cow herd today is only slightly higher than it was a year ago. Deteriorating profit margins, a weak Canadian dollar and the strong pull of the US market have all worked to undermine growth in the Canadian beef cow herd. As of 1 January, heifer replacement numbers were down 10,000 head (‐1.8 per cent) from the previous year, implying that it is a good likelihood the beef cow herd at the end of this year will be about the same size, maybe even smaller, than today.

The direct result of a smaller breeding herd is a steady erosion in calf production and ultimately a smaller Canadian cattle industry. The decision last year by Western Feedlots, the largest feeding operation in the country, to wind down operations in 2017 is a result of the realization that a structural turnaround is unlikely in the short to medium term. With almost 1 million fewer calves born in Canada today than 10 years ago, the supply base is about 20 per cent smaller and Canadian feeders also have to contend with strong competition from the US and the negative impact of a weak exchange rate.

TheCattleSite News Desk

＜米＞　牛肉・豚肉とも1月の輸出も力強い第１歩

US Beef Exports Maintain Strong Pace in January

10 March 2017

US - January exports of US beef and pork were up significantly year-over-year, maintaining the solid momentum established in the fourth quarter of 2016, according to statistics released by USDA and compiled by USMEF.

Beef exports totaled 96,488 metric tons (mt), up 17 per cent from a year ago, valued at $515.5 million – up 18 per cent and the highest ever for the month of January. Exports accounted for 12.2 per cent of total beef production and 9.5 per cent for muscle cuts only – with both ratios being fairly steady with January 2016. Export value per head of fed slaughter was $256.62, up 7 per cent from a year ago.

“The red meat industry entered 2017 with an optimistic outlook, confident that we can continue our recent strong momentum in the international markets,” said Philip Seng, USMEF president and CEO.

“The January results certainly validate that feeling, but we understand that significant challenges still lie ahead. With record-large pork production and beef production also trending higher it’s more important than ever that we capitalize on our abundance of protein, and move more product out of the country by growing US market share in established markets and breaking new ground in emerging destinations.”

Beef exports still red-hot in key Asian markets

Beef exports were higher year-over-year to most major destinations, but Japan and South Korea continued to be the pacesetters for the start of 2017. Exports to Japan were up 34 per cent in both volume (22,487 mt) and value ($125.2 million), with muscle cut exports climbing 41 per cent. Exports to Korea achieved similar growth, with volume up 35 per cent to 15,194 mt and value increasing 36 per cent to $91.6 million – maintaining the pace that carried exports to Korea over the $1 billion mark for the first time last year.

Other January highlights for US beef include:

· Exports to Mexico were 26 per cent above last year’s pace in volume (19,151 mt) and up 11 per cent in value ($76.2 million). Exports to Canada also rebounded, up 8 per cent in volume and 11 per cent in value (9,885 mt; $60.8 million)

· Following a record year for export value, exports to Taiwan climbed 24 per cent in both volume (3,591 mt) and value ($29.9 million).

· Led by growth in the Philippines and renewed momentum for US beef in Indonesia, exports to the ASEAN region were up 56 per cent in volume to 2,556 mt and 45 per cent in value to $14.1 million.

TheCattleSite News Desk

#文書の先頭

海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜米＞　1月の食肉輸出軒並み大幅増；ビーフ21％、ポーク20%、チキン12％の増加

CME: US Beef Export Tonnage Up in January 2017

10 March 2017

US - USDA’s Economic Research Service published their carcass weight equivalent meat and poultry trade data for the US yesterday (Thursday, 9 March). Those data are calculated from the official monthly product weight data as compiled by USDA’s Foreign Agriculture Service using customs data. The general recent trends of year-over-year increases in exports and smaller imports continued in January, as expected, reports the Steiner Consulting Group, DLR Division, Inc.

For the month of January, US beef export tonnage was up 21 per cent year-over-year. Beef exports are highly seasonal, typically peaking in July. This year kicked-off relatively well, compared to prior January tonnage. Exports were the largest since 2001’s. Year-over-year, 41 per cent increases were posted for both Japan and Mexico, followed by South Korea (up 38 per cent). For major export destinations, double-digit gains also were recorded in sales to Viet Nam, Taiwan, and Canada. In January, beef imported tonnage continued its trend of declining compared to a year ago, dropping 25 per cent. Australia accounted for most of the drop (down 47 per cent year-over-year).

Turning to pork, during January, the US exported 20 per cent more tonnage than a year ago. Mexico and South Korea drove those gains jumping 36 per cent and 34 per cent, respectively. In terms of year-over-year growth among major foreign markets, Japan was next (up 6 per cent). January’s pork imports declined 14 per cent from 2016’s.

In the poultry complex, stronger exports remained the story. US broiler export tonnage increased 12 per cent year-over-year during January; which was the largest for that month since 2014’s. Historically, January is often the lowest broiler export month during the calendar year. This January, broiler sales were reported to 113 different countries. Year-over-year gains were broad based and included several Middle Eastern, African, Caribbean, and Central American countries. In January, turkey tonnage sold to other countries grew by 26 per cent compared to a year ago, driven by exports to the largest US market which is Mexico. Turkey exports were the largest posted for a January in two years.

＜米＞　タイソン社が製品の抗生物質の近日中ゼロ化を表明

Tyson Foods Moves All Chicken Products to Zero Antibiotics

22 February 2017

US - American poultry giant Tyson Foods has said that all it's consumer brand products will soon contain chicken raised without any antibiotics.

According to media reports, the switch is expected to be complete by June. The move was announced at the 2017 Consumer Analyst Group of New York (CAGNY) Conference, along with a new company logo and a pledge to keep investing in innovation and sustainability.

Further efforts to improve practices at Tyson include setting a goal of reducing workplace injuries and illnesses by 15 per cent year over year, continuing third-party audits of farms to certify humane treatment of chickens, and improving how chickens are raised through a concept farm, with innovations designed to be better for the birds, the environment and food safety.

Last year Tyson's rival Perdue announced it had eliminated routine use of antibiotics in chicken production.

ThePoultrySite News Desk

#文書の先頭

海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜ベトナム・米＞　米産牛肉が「ハリウッド級」の扱い受ける：輸入元タオチエン社、国内販売先ロッテマート、イオン、メガマート、Ｅマート等

US Beef Gets 'Hollywood' Treatment in Viet Nam

24 February 2017

VIET NAM - Working to build and strengthen relationships with red meat buyers in Viet Nam, USMEF collaborated with a major beef importer to conduct a US beef promotion during a Lunar New Year celebration.

The US beef cooking demonstration with “Hollywood Chef” Jack Lee, held at a Lotte Mart supermarket in Ho Chi Minh City, was funded by the Beef Checkoff Programme.

“We partnered with the Thao Tien Company, one of the biggest US beef importers and a major supplier for Lotte Mart, a fast-growing retail chain in Viet Nam,” said Sabrina Yin, USMEF director in the ASEAN region.

“This importer also supplies other large chains like AEON, Mega Mart, E-Mart and a number of smaller retailers.”

The goal, Ms Yin said, was to provide a platform for the importer and retailer to introduce US beef to more consumers – and to present menu ideas and create awareness about US beef through the celebrity chef appearance.

Using social media to draw attention to the event and to the US beef cooking demonstration by Chef Lee, announcements were made on the Lotte Mart Facebook page.

Jack Lee, a Vietnamese-American chef who has lived in southern California for more than 35 years, is often referred to as “Hollywood Chef” by the Vietnamese media because of his background as a private caterer for Hollywood celebrities.

Chef Lee has travelled frequently to Viet Nam in recent years to share his culinary talents with a younger generation of Vietnamese chefs, creating a positive image among consumers, Ms Yin explained.

A number of dignitaries also joined in the celebration. Timothy Liston, deputy principle officer of the US Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City, joined Agriculture Attaché Gerard Smith and Senior Agricultural Specialist Vo Thanh Kiet at the event. Mr Liston was the guest of honor during Chef Lee’s US beef cooking demonstration.

Chef Lee prepared three dishes using US beef: top blade steak and vegetables, chuck flap steak with salad and classic pan-seared ribeye steaks.

Tasting samples of the US beef dishes were given to Lotte Mart shoppers and guests at the celebration.

Meanwhile, guests were invited to play games and participate in quizzes that helped educate consumers about the quality and attributes of US beef.

“Another of Chef Lee’s strengths is that he develops his demonstrations using simple instructions, so consumers can easily purchase US beef and cook the dishes at home,” said Ms Yin.

TheCattleSite News Desk

＜米・日＞　米国2016年の豚肉輸出：量ではメキシコ向けだが、金額では日本向けが1位

2016 US Pork Exports Show Impressive Progress

24 February 2017

US - At year-end 2016, US pork exports showed impressive progress following a challenging 2015. In 2016, 5.1 billion pounds of pork and pork variety meats valued at $5.94 billion dollars were exported, up 8 percent and 7 per cent respectively from 2015, according to the USDA.

“We saw a strong 2016 for US pork exports, but we still face challenges with increased global competition and a stronger US dollar,” said Becca Nepple, vice president of international marketing for the Pork Checkoff.

“The Checkoff is committed to bolstering its partnership with international customers through additional funding of in-country promotions of US pork with the US Meat Export Federation.”

On average, US pork and pork variety meat exports accounted for 25.8 per cent of total pork production in 2016. Export value returned an average $50.20 per head back to producers.

During 2016, more than 100 countries around the world imported US pork.

· The top five markets by volume were Mexico (1.61 billion pounds), China/Hong Kong (1.21 billion pounds), Japan (854.8 million pounds), Canada (452.2 million pounds) and Central and South America (299.7 million pounds).

· The top five markets by value were Japan ($1.56 billion), Mexico ($1.355 billion), China and Hong Kong ($1.075 billion), Canada ($798.5 million) and Korea ($365.1 million).

With more pork available in the US, the National Pork Board recently approved an increase of 12.7 per cent in funding for 2017 export market activities. This financial commitment translates into tangible marketing activities that increase US pork exports to emerging and developing markets.

According to Nepple, promotions and marketing activities will focus on displacing other proteins and global competitors and on promoting larger pork cuts.

ThePigSite News Desk

＜加・米＞　トランプ政権下でも、両国の豚生産者は自由貿易の価値を認識

Canadian and American Pork Producers Recognize Value of Trade

22 February 2017

CANADA - The Chair of Manitoba Pork says pork producers on both sides of the Canada US border recognise the value of trade and value the essence of free trade, writes Bruce Cochrane.

Last week trade was among the items on the agenda as pork industry representatives gathered in Minneapolis for the Canada-US Upper Midwest Pork Industry Summit.

George Matheson, the Chair of Manitoba Pork, observes there's a great deal of common ground among Canadian and American pork producers when it comes to the issue of trade.

George Matheson-Manitoba Pork:

The Trump administration and the way the media, I would say, at times blows things out of proportion makes it sound like doom and gloom and it's a wild card in the future.

But for the time being, 20 per cent f the pork consumed is American pork, our weanling pigs out of Manitoba, approximately three million a year continue to flow down and are welcomed by Minnesota and Iowa finishers so trade is moving well.

There's a fact that 2.5 to 2.6 million hogs are moving through plants every week, which is a cumbersome amount of pigs, means that demand is good and world wide trade out of this continent has been moving well.

Prices are reasonably good right now and that was not expected three or four months ago and that's mainly due to trade.

We all feel that and hope that Mr Trump is a business man and realizes the value of free trade and will continue to be as it is today.

Matheson says 12 years of trade missions to the US have put a face to the Canadian industry and US producers recognize Canadian producers are not getting any government handouts and are at the mercy of the market place.

He says producers in both countries realize the importance of trade and value the essence of free trade.

ThePigSite News Desk

#文書の先頭

海外食肉ニュース「国別」に

＜印・米＞　ＷＴＯ裁定後、印の養鶏業界が米からのチキンレッグ輸入に強硬に反対

Indian Poultry Farmers Concerned Over Potential for US Imports

23 February 2017

INDIA - The Indian poultry industry has strongly opposed moves to allow import of chicken legs from the United States after India lost its case in the World Trade Organisation (WTO) last year.

The Business Standard newspaper reports that the Indian poultry industry fears a potential for huge imports of cheap chicken legs from the US after India lost its case against US imports at the World Trade Organisation in July last year. The WTO ruling to allow US poultry imports was effectively notified in July 2016, though no imports from US have yet started.

In a letter recently written to the Ministry of Agriculture, the Poultry Federation of India has warned the government that the use of pig fat as a feed by US farmers could create religious disharmony in India.

"We have written a letter to the government highlighting use of pig fat by chicken farmers in the United States. Import of chicken legs, therefore, might create religious disharmony in India. The government should not allow its import from the United States," said Ramesh Khatri, President of the Poultry Federation of India.

Indian poultry farmers have urged the government to create stringent guidelines for imports, Business Standard reports, including a ban on birds slaughtered more than three months ago, full declaration about use of high protein feed and not allowing birds fed with genetically modified (GM) corn and soya.

ThePoultrySite News Desk