Audio: Influenza Not Slowing U.S. Pork’s Momentum in Japan

May 8, 2009 - Pork producers across the nation are concerned about the impact of H1N1 Influenza on pork demand, both in the domestic and international markets. While some foreign markets have closed to U.S. pork or imposed unnecessary trade restrictions, Japan remains fully opento pork imports. The United States is the market share leader for imported pork in Japan, which is by far the largest value market for U.S. pork exports. In 2008, Japan imported 996 million pounds of U.S. pork valued at nearly $1.55 billion. Through January and February of this year, exports to Japan have accelerated by 23 percent in volume and 35 percent in value over the same period last year. 

Reporting from Tokyo, U.S.Meat Export Federation Japan Director Gregory Hanes says the government of Japan has done an excellent job of educating consumers about the safety of pork, and easing any unfounded fears that may have associated H1N1 Influenza with pork consumption.

Audio Clip #1   :33        Outcue:            (…safer than other types.)

While the government’s actions have been very supportive, USMEF has also been extremely active in its efforts to maintain pork demand and prevent any loss of momentum for U.S. pork in this critical export market.

Audio Clip #2   :32        Outcue:            (…customers as well.)

These actions appear to be having a very positive impact on demand for U.S. pork. Hanes says that while restaurant sales have slowed somewhat due to the sluggish economy, the H1N1 Influenza situation has hadlittle negative impact.

Audio Clip #3   :30        Outcue:            (…regarding the flu.)

At the retail level, sales are affected during this time of the year by the seven-day Golden Week holiday period. But Hanes says sales reports have been very positive, especially among outlets that have aggressively marketed pork.

Audio Clip #4   :24        Outcue:            (…over the Golden Week.)

Overall, Hanes feels Japan is once again proving its mettle as a very consistent and resilient market for U.S. pork, and producers can be confident in its continued high performance.

Audio Clip #5   :26        Outcue:            (…pork purchasing cycle.)

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The U.S. Meat Export Federation (www.USMEF.org) is the trade association responsible for developing international markets for the U.S. red meat industry and is funded by USDA, exporting companies, and the beef, pork, corn and soybean checkoff programs.