Meat Production Rising in U.S.

WASHINGTON - Apr 10/06 - SNS -- U.S. meat production forecasts for 2006 are raised from last month to reflect higher red meat output, according to the latest report from the USDA's World Agricultural Outlook Board.

First-quarter beef production is increased due to higher-than-expected cattle slaughter and heavier carcass weights.

Although the NASS Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report confirms only a gradual expansion in the hog sector, pork production forecasts are raised primarily because of larger expected imports of live swine from Canada. Broiler and turkey production forecasts are unchanged from last month.

Beef and pork export forecasts are raised from last month. No changes are made in trade assumptions for Japan and South Korea, but exports to Canada and Mexico are expected to be higher. Pork export forecasts are increased due to continuing strength in demand in most major markets. Broiler meat export forecasts are unchanged from last month.

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