U.S. pork shipments to Central America and the Dominican Republic strengthened in the first quarter of 2026, driven by rising incomes, tourism and preferential trade access. Shipments rose 15% year‑over‑year to 78,271 metric tons, valued at $246.1 million. 78,271 mt shipped and $246.1M value underscore accelerating demand for U.S. pork in the region.
Regional gains
The Dominican Republic led the surge in March, when exports jumped 50% versus the same month a year earlier and set a new monthly value record of $35.8 million. March volume to the DR reached 12,478 metric tons, the second-largest monthly total on record, and first-quarter shipments to the DR climbed about 31% to just under 30,000 metric tons, valued at $87.4 million. DR March +50%
Central America also posted gains in Q1 2026. First-quarter exports to the region totaled more than 48,000 metric tons, up 7% and valued at $158.7 million, a 12% increase from a year earlier. Growth was strongest to Honduras, with notable demand in Costa Rica, Panama and El Salvador supporting the broader uptick.
Competitor dynamics
Brazil’s shipments to the Dominican Republic declined in the first quarter of 2026, falling about 30% year‑over‑year to roughly 2,195 metric tons. Dominican domestic production continues to face challenges from African swine fever, while per‑capita pork consumption in the country remains elevated, supporting imports.
Industry focus and outreach
The U.S. Meat Export Federation is making Central America a key agenda item at its Spring Conference in Oklahoma City, May 20‑22, where regional economics and trade issues will be discussed. Speakers scheduled include Ricardo Zúñiga of Dinámica Americas, and USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom will address the region’s export potential and trade stability as U.S. business expands there.
USMEF and USDA marketing efforts are also reinforcing demand on the ground. A recent masterclass at the Panama International Hotel School, produced with SaborUSA and supported by the National Pork Board, gave culinary students hands‑on training with U.S. pork loin, while consumer campaigns such as Girls Can Grill and its successor Inspire Us have focused on cooking technique and preventing overcooking to boost loin and tenderloin appeal.
USMEF officials say the early‑2026 momentum and ongoing promotional programs aim to sustain growth as exporters pursue retail, foodservice and processing channels across Central America and the Dominican Republic. The USMEF Spring Conference runs May 20‑22 in Oklahoma City, where Central America will be a principal topic for members and stakeholders.
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