USMEF’s Spronk Highlights U.S. Red Meat Sales Growth in Indonesia
In a recent meeting between the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) and the Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA), significant strides were made in promoting U.S. red meat exports to Indonesia.
The meeting, which involved prospective buyers and market experts, aimed to identify growth opportunities for U.S. pork and beef in the Southeast Asian country.
The delegation was led by USMEF Chair Randy Spronk, who emphasized the strong potential for red meat exports, particularly pork, in a market that continues to expand.
“Indonesia has a young and growing population of 279 million, and with 13% of the population not being Muslim, there are significant opportunities for U.S. pork,” Spronk noted.
He explained that this 13% non-Muslim demographic represents approximately 36 million people, making it an export market roughly the size of Canada.
This, combined with the recent reduction in pork supply from the European Union, has created a perfect opportunity for U.S. exporters to grow their presence.
In 2024, U.S. pork exports to Indonesia increased by 21%, reaching 380 metric tons, with a 14% increase in value, totaling $1.5 million. U.S. pork market share also surged from 11.5% in 2023 to 38.5% in 2024.
According to Spronk, USMEF has been conducting promotional campaigns at upscale retail outlets in targeted areas to enhance consumer awareness and position U.S. pork as a premium product.
“Indonesia is a long-term growth market and pork consumption is very low, even among the non-Muslim populations,” Spronk added. “It reminds me of Colombia, where we helped double pork consumption over a 10-year period.”
The discussion also touched upon opportunities for U.S. beef exports. Spronk sees strong potential for middle meats in high-end food service and modern retail outlets, while underutilized cuts and a variety of meats could thrive in food service and traditional wet markets.
However, a challenge for U.S. beef exporters is Indonesia’s extensive plant approval process, which is one of the most stringent in the world.
Spronk praised ISA’s strong trade relationships in the region, particularly in providing soy protein.
“Indiana Soy has the relationships here – you’re already here with soybeans, and you have the logistics to distribute soybeans to a multitude of islands,” Spronk said. “So, I think there’s great opportunity for pork products to be able to move into the market too.”
The visit was funded by the National Pork Board, with additional support from the Beef Checkoff Program, the National Pork Board, and the USDA’s Market Access Program.
Spronk’s optimism about Indonesia’s market highlights the country’s importance as a growing destination for U.S. pork and beef, with long-term strategies expected to further boost exports in the coming years.
Curious about how U.S. meat exports are growing globally? Visit our homepage to learn more about the expanding reach of U.S. pork and beef in new markets.
