Source: Rita Jane Gabbett, MEATINGPLACE, 12/2/11

USDA raised its fiscal 2012 exports forecast for livestock, poultry, and dairy by $900 million to $28 billion, with gains in all sectors except dairy, which is expected to be flat.

In its Outlook for U.S. Agricultural Trade report, USDA forecast beef exports at $4.9 billion, up $500 million on higher unit values and sharply higher volumes. Despite lower U.S. beef production, exports are higher based on stronger demand from major markets, particularly Asia, USDA reported.

Poultry exports were forecast up over $200 million to $5.5 billion, due to higher unit values and stronger sales, especially to countries in Asia and other emerging markets.

Pork exports are forecast to reach $5.4 billion, up nearly $200 million, mainly on robust Chinese import demand.

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