By Jamie Martin
Randy Spronk, Chair of the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), recently highlighted the potential for U.S. red meat in Indonesia during a collaboration with the Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA).
The team met with local meat importers and attended the Food and Hotel Indonesia trade show to explore market dynamics and consumer trends.
During the event, Sabrina Yin, USMEF ASEAN Director, and Arrofi Satrio Alam, Indonesia Representative, provided insights into the challenges and opportunities in the region. They discussed the significant growth in U.S. pork market share, which surged from 11.5% in 2023 to 38.5% in 2024, propelled by a decrease in European Union supplies. The first half of 2024 saw a 21% increase in U.S. pork exports to Indonesia, reaching 380 metric tons.
Spronk compared the Indonesian market to Colombia, where USMEF efforts helped double pork consumption over a decade. He emphasized the potential for both pork and beef in Indonesia, particularly in high-end foodservice and modern retail sectors, as well as opportunities for underutilized cuts in traditional food markets.
The main hurdles for U.S. beef include stringent plant approval processes unique to Indonesia. However, with USMEF's established presence and USDA's support through various programs, there are ample resources to navigate these challenges and tap into Indonesia's growing market. This initiative is supported by multiple stakeholders, including the National Pork Board, ensuring a collaborative approach to expanding U.S. meat exports.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-luoman
Categories: National