Cattle Imports
The U.S. cattle import market has experienced significant growth in the first four months of 2024. Total imports have reached 762,450 head, up 17.14% from the same period in 2023.
U.S. Cattle Imports Up 17.14% in Early 2024
The U.S. cattle import market has experienced significant growth in the first four months of 2024. Total imports have reached 762,450 head, up 17.14% from the same period in 2023. This increase continues the upward trend seen in 2023 when total annual imports were 1,980,586 head, compared to 1,628,086 head in 2022. Here’s a closer look at the two primary sources of U.S. cattle imports: Mexico and Canada.
Top Cattle Suppliers to the U.S.:
Mexico
2022: 870,700 head
2023: 1,246,554 head
Jan - Apr 2023: 408,768 head
Jan - Apr 2024: 479,605 head
Change: +17.33%
Observation: Mexico continues to be the largest supplier of cattle to the U.S., showing a robust 17.33% increase in the first four months of 2024. This growth reflects the strong trade relationship and Mexico's capacity to meet the rising demand for cattle in the U.S.
Canada
2022: 757,386 head
2023: 734,032 head
Jan - Apr 2023: 242,130 head
Jan - Apr 2024: 282,845 head
Change: +16.82%
Observation: Canada has also increased its cattle exports to the U.S. by 16.82% year-to-date in 2024. Despite a slight decline in total annual imports from 2022 to 2023, Canada has rebounded strongly in 2024, underscoring its role as a key supplier.
