Market Watch

October beef exports from the U.S. equated to 15 percent of total production and 11 percent of muscle cut production, compared to 13.5 percent and 11 percent, respectively, a year ago, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). For January through October, exports equated to 14 percent of total production and 11 percent for muscle cuts (up from 13 percent and 10 percent). Export value per head of fed slaughter was $321.28 in October (up $70 from a year ago) and $287.32 for January-October (up $42.80). Exports to Japan were exceptionally strong in October, increasing 25 percent in volume (22,586 mt) and 54 percent in value ($164 million). For January-October, exports totaled 206,879 mt (up 2 percent) valued at $1.33 billion (up 11 percent). Other January-October beef highlights include: Exports to South Korea were up 12 percent in volume (96,040 mt) and 41 percent in value ($674.9 million). October export volume was the largest o