In 2025, beginning inventories and beef production declined due to the increased pace of slaughter in 2024. Beef consumption remains weak due to inflation, with a shift toward less expensive proteins such as pork. Beef imports will remain stagnant amid the U.S. dollar vis-à-vis the Japanese yen. Pork production and consumption will remain stable, favored over pricier proteins in 2025. Pork imports will decline slightly due to higher ending stocks in 2024, along with distribution challenges. Importers are diversifying their sourcing needs, to overcome the challenging trade environment.