In 2001, U.S. pork exports worldwide grew by 21% in volume to more than 703,000 metric tons, and 13% in value to nearly $1.6 billion, shattering the record previously set in 2000, according to data collected by the United States Department of Agriculture.

"The top market for U.S. pork is Japan, which purchased more than 250,000 metric tons at a value of more than $850 million," said Tim Bierman, President of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. "In terms of value, Japan's purchases exceeded more than one-half of the total worldwide purchases of U.S. pork. In volume, Japan equals the next two largest markets - Mexico and Canada."

Modern packaging processes, high levels of hygiene in Iowa pork plants and containerized shipping to export customers have allowed Iowa pork to be priced competitively. "Pork from Iowa can be shipped as fresh chilled pork by ocean freight to Japan," said Bierman. "Chilled pork has a shelf life that allows it to be served as fresh pork on the table of Japanese consumers." When chilled pork is placed in a refrigerated freight container in Iowa, the container is usually not opened until it reaches its destination. The internal temperature of the containers is constantly monitored and recorded while in transit.

Officials are estimating that sales of pork to Japan will decrease in 2002 due to the implementation of the "safeguard," a Japanese government tariff plan that goes into effect to protect Japanese pork producers when imports rise above a certain level in comparison to the previous year. The "safeguard" was triggered in August. Additionally, concern exists regarding pork sales due to the current worldwide economic situation and competition from abundant sources of other meats.

"Some of the large meat companies in Japan have a physical presence in Iowa to help source their pork," said Sam Carney, a producer from Adair and chair of the IPPA's Foreign Market Development Committee. "Additionally, several trade teams from other countries are hosted by the IPPA annually. Exports now account for more than 9.9 percent of U.S. pork production on a wholesale weight basis."