Armanino Foods Posts Record Sales and Profits in Q2

Armanino Foods announced record-breaking results for the second quarter of its fiscal year.

The company manufactures and markets frozen Italian specialty food items including pesto, sauces, and filled pastas for foodservice and retail markets.

In quarter two, the company accomplished record net sales of $19.9 million, an increase of more than 14% compared to the same period in 2024.

"We are proud to report another quarter of record-breaking sales and profits — a milestone that reflects both the strength of our operating model and our disciplined execution...

DoorDash Reports Record Results for Q2 FY2025

DoorDash delivered record performance in the second quarter of its fiscal year, achieving new highs in total orders, Marketplace GOV, and revenue. Total orders climbed 20% year-over-year (YOY), while Marketplace GOV increased 23% to $24.2 billion. Revenue surged 25% YoY to $3.3 billion.

Net revenue margin improved compared to both last year and last quarter, driven by more efficient logistics, higher advertising revenue, and fewer credits and refunds issued.

Adjusted EBITDA reached $655 million in Q2 2025, a...

ANALYSIS: Brazil Sets New Record with July 2025 Beef Exports

According to the latest data released by Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services, Brazil has shipped 276,879 mt of fresh beef (frozen and refrigerated) in July 2025, marking a monthly growth of 15.3% and a 13.3% YOY increase.

China maintained its position as the top destination, absorbing 158,374 mt last month, marking a solid growth of 17.8% MOM and 29.7% YOY. The Asian country has maintained strong momentum since the start of the year, now accounting for 57.2% of Brazil’s total beef exports...

Maple Leaf Foods Sees Major Turnaround with $58M Profit in Q2 2025

Maple leaf, a Canadian food processing company, have delivered findings from its quarterly results. 

The company reported a strong second quarter, with adjusted EBITDA increasing 28.9% to $182 million compared to the same period last year. Total sales reached $1.36 billion, representing an 8.5% year-over-year increase, driven by consistent growth across all major operating segments.

Prepared Foods saw a 7.5% increase in sales, Poultry rose by 8.5%, and Pork climbed 10.7%, reflecting solid market demand...

US Foods Delivers Strong Q2 Results, Raises 2025 Outlook

In its quarterly results, US Foods' strong performance showed steady progress across key areas of the business.

“Our second quarter performance underscores the strength of our team's continued focus on execution and delivering value to our customers. This momentum has fueled further market share gains with independent restaurant, healthcare and hospitality customers, resulting in record Adjusted EBITDA of $548 million and a 40 basis point increase in Adjusted EBITDA margin to a record 5.4%,” said Dave Flitman, CEO. “Looking ahead, we have a long runway...

ANALYSIS: Australia’s July 2025 Beef Exports Smash Fresh Record Highs

Australia’s beef exports in July 2025 soared to a fresh record high, hitting 150,435 metric tons (mt), according to data from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (D.A.F.F.). The volume topped the previous peak set in June 2025 by 15,838 mt and marked a fourth straight month of growth.

Increases in exports to major destinations such as the United States (US), China, Canada, Japan, and Korea supported the overall growth, potentially setting the stage for Australia’s annual volumes to hit record highs in 2025...

UNFI Appoints David Best to President and CEO of Retail

United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI) announced the appointment of David Best to President and Chief Executive Officer of Retail effective August 17.

“I’m excited to join UNFI and accelerate the retail business during such a pivotal time for the Company,” Best said. “As a former UNFI customer and a Minnesota native, I have a great respect for the differentiated value UNFI is creating within our industry and for everything the Cub brand means to the community I call home. I’m energized by the opportunity to work with the...

Farmer Sentiment Weakens, But Farmers Believe US Policy Headed in Right Direction

Farmer sentiment continues to weaken, as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer declined again in July. The barometer fell 11 points to 135 from June, a reading that resulted from U.S. farmers' weaker perceptions of both current conditions and future expectations. The July Current Conditions Index dropped 17 points to 127 from last month, while the Future Expectations Index posted a smaller decline of 7 points to 139. Driving the weaker income prospects for 2025 were farmers' assessment of current conditions...

The Retail Rundown: Summer’s Last Stretch Drives Seasonal Promotions

August has arrived, bringing a sense of urgency to make the most of summer’s final weeks. With Labor Day fewer than four weeks away and just seven weeks remaining until the season’s official end, retailers are already diving into back-to-school promotions.

Seafood claims the top spot among protein features again this week, making up 30.3% of all retail ads, followed by beef at 26.2%, pork at 20.8%, and chicken at 18.9%. Egg promotions remain minimal, comprising less than 1% of features—consistent with last week’s light showing. The Midwest led in egg advertising, while the Northeast and South Central regions showed more moderate activity...

China Extends Antidumping Investigation on Imported Beef to November 2025 

China’s antidumping investigation into imported beef will be extended until November 26, 2025, the latest announcement by China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) stated.  

Originally set to conclude in August, it will now be extended by three months “due to the large workload and complex case,” as per Announcement No. 38. 

The MOFCOM began the investigation on December 27, 2024, following a request from China’s Animal Agriculture Association and nine industry associations representing major beef-producing areas on behalf of the domestic beef sector...

UK Retailers React to Tariff Uncertainty With 76% of Exporters Diversifying Beyond the US Market

New research from ESW and Retail Economics reveals that 76% of UK exporters are now actively diversifying beyond the US, historically the UK’s largest non-EU retail market. Larger UK retailers are radically re-drawing their global growth playbooks as protectionist trade policies upend decades-old export patterns. However, 71% of small UK retailers admit they have no formal plan for sudden trade-policy shocks, a stark operational gap that could hit margins overnight.

The report, “Rethinking Reach...

Navigating the Trump Tariff Turbulence: A Comprehensive Timeline

US President Donald Trump and his administration have paused reciprocal tariffs on most countries.

“Based on the lack of respect that China has shown... I am hereby raising the [tariff] charged to China by the [USA] to 125%, effective immediately,” wrote Trump on Truth Social at 1:18 pm ET. 

It’s not clear if this 125% is in addition to the 20% imposed on Chinese imports to the US. In early March, Trump noted that he would add another 10% tariff on Chinese goods...

ANALYSIS: Japan’s 1H 2025 Beef Imports Tumbles 13.0% YOY as Consumption Cools 

Japan’s beef imports in the first half of 2025 slumped 13.0% from a year ago at 236,712 metric tons (mt), according to the latest data from Japan’s Trade Statistics. 

Inbound shipments by Asia’s second largest beef importer fell by 35,262 mt, with volumes down from key suppliers including Australia, the United States (US), Canada and New Zealand. 

Australia led shipments with 111,440 mt, outpacing the US. Despite a production surge, annual volumes to the island nation declined 11.9%. Its market share stood at 47.1%...

Growth Continues for Publix with Rising Sales, Earnings, and Stock Value

Publix’s sales for the second quarter rose 7.3%, increasing from $14.5 billion to $15.6 billion. Comparable store sales were also up, growing 6% during the quarter. The company estimates that approximately 1% of the year-over-year sales growth in Q2 was due to the timing of the Easter holiday, which fell in the second quarter of 2025 but in the first quarter of 2024.

Net earnings for the quarter increased 41.5% to $1.4 billion, compared to...

ANALYSIS: Tariff Concerns Driving Mexican Beef Cut Exports to the US

Mexican fresh beef cuts exports to the US have navigated fluctuating dynamics throughout 2025, with initial robust volumes giving way to moderated activity amid evolving demand patterns. Early in the year, shipments maintained steady momentum, building on the comparative stability observed in prior years, but faced different challenges as importer strategies shifted in response to market conditions. 

Exports experienced a notable decline from April through June 2025 compared to the volumes recorded in the first quarter of the year, reflecting reduced importer interest amid...

ANALYSIS: Heavier Lambs Offset Lower Slaughter

According to USDA’s weekly data, lamb and mutton production in the US reached 70.3 million pounds year-to-date as of July 25, 2025, which is 3.1% higher than the same point last year. So far this year, 1,099,000 total lambs and sheep have been slaughtered, slightly below the 1,103,000 head processed during the same period in 2024. Even with fewer animals being processed, heavier lamb weights have helped offset the decline. For the week of July 25, the average live weight was 123 pounds...

ANALYSIS: EU Pork Carcass Price Declines During July  

After reaching this year’s price peak at €2.13/kg on July 1st, the index for EU Pig deadweight grade S  EXW EU (BW56) has decreased continuously since then, with the last price assessment being at €2.03/kg on July 29th. However, while the price index decreased throughout the month, the market sentiment of the underlying countries was reported as main divers. While price decreases across the German, Polish and Spanish market drove the EU pork basket lower, the French market held steady during the month, limiting the downward 

Listeria, Metal Contamination, and Allergen Mislabeling Triggers Actions from FSIS

This week, the US Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a pair of public health alerts as well as one recall.

The first announcement was issued Sunday, July 27, for ready-to-eat ham salad products containing FDA-regulated breadcrumbs that have been recalled due to possible Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) contamination. The problem was discovered when Reser's Fine Foods, Inc. determined that the company had used breadcrumbs that had been subject to an FDA recall because that item may have been contaminated with Lm...

UNFI Unveils Top Industry Trends to Help Retailers Plan for the Holiday and Winter Selling Season

During its second Holiday and Winter Selling Show of 2025 in Uncasville, Conn., United Natural Foods, Inc. brought together more than 3,900 attendees, connecting more than 1,400 retailers and over 750 suppliers. Exhibitors showcased thousands of unique products, spanning the natural, organic, fresh, specialty, and conventional grocery categories.

Differentiation that Drives Results

During the show, UNFI experts shared the latest industry insights and emerging growth opportunities to help grocers stand out during the upcoming holiday and winter selling...

PODCAST: Agri-Food for Thought Ep. 32 - M&A in the Global Agri-Food Industry, July 2025 Overview

Expana presents Agri-Food for Thought, the podcast series for agriculture and food professionals.Today, we bring you up to speed with merger & acquisition activity in the global agrifood landscape that occurred in July 2025 as part of the monthly M&A focus series.

July 2025 M&A activity somewhat slowed down compared to previous months. The ongoing tariffs situation, the global focus on trade deals, other trade disputes, and market uncertainty, have a role to play here

Trump Signs Sweeping Executive Order Revamping US Tariff Rates; 15% Floor for Deficit Nations

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on July 31, unveiling a massive overhaul of US tariff policy, introducing a series of new import rates for US trading partners (find the full rate list below).

Under the new plan, countries with which the US has a trade deficit will face a minimum 15% tariff, affecting more than 30 nations. Meanwhile, the administration’s existing 10% “universal” tariff will remain in place for countries where US exports exceed imports...

Triple Typhoon Impact Disrupts Southeast Asian Agricultural and Aquaculture Supply Chains

A rare convergence of three powerful typhoons in July has battered key agricultural and aquaculture regions across China, Vietnam, Taiwan, and the Philippines. Typhoons Wipha, Danas, and Co-May have collectively caused hundreds of millions in damages.  

Typhoon Wipha Deals Blow to Vietnam’s Rice and Shrimp Exports 

Typhoon Wipha formed on July 18 near the northern Philippines and intensified to Category 1 before making landfall in Guangzhou, China, and later striking northern Vietnam. Wipha lashed southern China with winds up to 75 mph, triggering floods and landslides

Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #20

Expana’s global team of specialist reporters has been tracking every twist and turn in the fluid tariff situation.

Click to read: "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #20."

This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text.

...

As of July 27, the United States and the European Union reached a trade agreement: The US will charge a 15% tariff on all imports across-the-board from the coalition of countries...

Kroger Announces New Leaders in Key Roles

The Kroger Co. today announced leadership changes in several key roles across the company.

Kroger appointed Ed Oldham to Head of Sourcing. Oldham joins Kroger from PetSmart, where he was Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer. He led the company's distribution and transportation strategy across North America, overseeing an international distribution network and 2,500 associates. Oldham brings more than 25 years of experience in retail, CPGs, and consulting, where he led planning, buying, replenishment, operations and sourcing decisions across multi-billion-dollar categories. Before joining PetSmart...

ANALYSIS: Tight Freezer Pork Stocks Highlight Seasonal Strength and Trade Sensitivity

As of June 30, 2025, total pork in cold storage declined to 422.3 million pounds, representing a 6% decrease from May and an 11.1% drop from the same period last year. While this drawdown aligns with typical seasonal patterns, driven by stronger domestic demand and active export movement, especially for high-demand cuts like bellies and ribs, the current inventory level marks a ten-year low. This current position is further compounded by slightly reduced year-to-date slaughter totals, which have limited available product for cold storage...

White House Unveils 40% Additional Tariffs on Brazilian Imports; Orange Juice, Nuts Spared

On the afternoon of July 30, Brazil was assigned an additional 40% tariff rate, according to a White House statement. US President Trump invoked the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) which will add to the current baseline 10% tariff on foreign good imported to the US. However, Trump teased upping that rate for ~200 countries where a trade deal would not make sense to negotiate. For now, it’s clear that 40% is in addition to any currently applicable US tariff...

Inside the Mind of a Procurement Strategist: Former Kellanova CPO Looks at Key Trends

At Expana’s Agri-Food Americas event on September 23-24 in Chicago, procurement critical thinking and business solution finding will take center stage. Expert insights will be given and many networking opportunities will be enabled for attendees, who are all faced with disruptive trade shits and global agricultural commodity supply chain woes. 

The ambition is for agri-food leaders to unite, discuss, seek expert overviews, and gain some sense of direction and clarity they can ultimately take back home and apply to their procurement strategies.

The Retail Rundown: Retailers Push Protein as July Wraps

As July comes to a close and summer heat intensifies, retailers are pushing protein promotions to attract shoppers and encourage at-home grilling and cooking.

Seafood reclaimed the top spot in protein ad share this week, accounting for nearly 27% of all features. Pork followed at 24%, while beef and chicken trailed close behind at roughly 23% each. Egg promotions dipped slightly to around 1%.

Expana notes that retail egg demand has softened—typical for summer, when hot weather reduces in-home usage. Shelf prices are holding near $3.00 per dozen, well below early-year highs, but lighter consumption has dampened order volumes...

Report Finds Full-Service Restaurants are Winning Back Customers with Menu Updates

Full-service restaurants are hoping to make a comeback in 2025, thanks to menu updates and operational improvements, according to Chatmeter’s latest Full-Service Reputation Ranking Report. 

The report, based on over one million reviews from June 16, 2023 to June 15, 2025, analyzed customer feedback across 10 of America's largest casual dining chains. The findings suggest that restaurants introducing new menu items and enhancing the overall dining experience are seeing a spike in both demand and customer reviews.  

The Cheesecake Factory, which claimed the...

Inside the 2025 Food Manufacturing Landscape: Workforce Challenges and Investment Uptick

Global Location Strategies (GLS), a site selection advisory firm, unveiled its 2025 edition of the Best Places for Food Manufacturing Insights Report, which featured some intriguing takeaways about the impact of tariffs, immigration raids, and regulatory shifts on food manufacturing expansion.

The report features findings from the sector that spans animal food manufacturing, grain and oilseed milling, sugar and confectionery product manufacturing, fruit and vegetable preserving, specialty food manufacturing, dairy product manufacturing, animal slaughtering and processing, seafood product preparation and packaging, bakeries and tortilla manufacturing, and other food...

Chad Stine Tapped to Lead Seattle Fish Company and Lombardi Brothers Meats

Founders Group of Food Companies announced the appointment of Chade Stine as the new President of the Seattle Fish Company and Lombardi Brothers Meats, effective August 11.

Stine will follow Christian Maas, who has been named Chief Operating Officer for Founders. In the past year and a half, Maas led the integration of Seattle Fish Company and Lombardi Brothers Meats.

Stine enters the role with over two decades of experience in the meat and seafood sectors. His most recent role was with Meats by Linz in Chicago...

Sysco Delivers Strong Q4 and Solid FY 2025 Results

Sysco announced its fourth-quarter and full-year results Tuesday morning.

"Sysco's Q4 results exceeded expectations, as improved financial outcomes were driven by Sysco-specific initiatives and improved restaurant industry traffic. Specific to our business, USFS local volumes improved sequentially by 200 bps, including a strong exit rate in June. Importantly, drivers of our progress accelerated during the quarter, with the momentum continuing in July, an encouraging signal as we begin the next fiscal year of profitable growth" said Kevin Hourican, Sysco’s Chair of the Board and Chief Executive Officer...

ANALYSIS: New Zealand Beef Exports Fall 5.5% YOY in 1H 2025 as Cattle Turnoff Slows 

New Zealand’s beef exports fell 5.5% year-on-year (YoY) in the first half of 2025, shedding 15,545 metric tons (mt) to 266,770 mt, according to the latest data from Stats NZ. 

The decline was driven by reduced volumes to China and Japan, though gains to the US, Canada and Korea helped cushion the fall. Export growth remained constrained by lower cattle slaughter, as favorable pasture conditions and a strong dairy market continued to limit... 

US-EU Trade Announcement: Markets Open to American Food and Beverage Producers

As of July 27, the United States and the European Union reached a trade agreement: The US will charge a 15% tariff on all imports across-the-board (including sector-specific rates like those on autos) from the coalition of countries, according to a joint announcement between US President Trump and European Commission President von der Leyen. 

The trade deal will contain agreements whereby the EU will purchase $750 billion in energy from the US, invest an additional $600 billion into the US, open markets to...

71% of Consumers Shop for Groceries Online, But Grocers Must Eliminate Friction to Grow Loyalty

As online grocery shopping continues to gain traction, U.S. consumers are sending a clear message to grocers: make it easier, smarter, and more connected. A new national survey from VTEX (NYSE: VTEX), composable commerce platform provider, finds that 71% of consumers have shopped online for groceries, with 50% purchasing groceries online at least once a month, but many shoppers are holding back from deeper digital engagement due to persistent friction in the experience.

The findings reveal powerful insights for grocers...

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert For Ready-To-Eat Ham Salad Products

The US Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a public health alert for ham salad products produced by Reser’s Fine Foods. The alert follows a recall of FDA-regulated breadcrumb ingredients supplied by Newly Weds Foods, which may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes (Lm).

This public health alert is intended to ensure that consumers are aware these products, which bear the USDA mark of inspection, should not be consumed.

The affected products included in this alert are...

UFCW Reaches Tentative Agreement with Albertsons Companies

On Sunday, UFCW 8-Golden State, along with UFCW Locals 5 and 648, announced a tentative agreement with Albertsons Companies, the parent company of grocery chains such as Safeway and Vons.

The agreement follows five months of intense negotiations and comes in the wake of a threatened walkout involving nearly 25,000 grocery workers. It includes significant wage increases, a strengthened and secure retirement plan, improved health care benefits, and improved job protection provisions aimed at fostering a safer and more respectful workplace.

UFCW 8-Golden State members working...

UK Meat Producer Cranswick Reports 9.7% Revenue Growth in Q1

UK’s Cranswick has reported a 9.7% increase in revenue for the 13 weeks up to 28 June 2025, or the first quarter in its financial year. Like-for-like revenue rose by 7.9%, driven by volume growth, the company said.

The recently acquired food service sausage manufacturer Blakemans on 16 May 2025, also contributed to growth, the trading report showed. And export revenue and volume increased following the reinstatement of the Norfolk site’s China export licence in December 2024.

The new retail business and strong demand at the cooked...

Trump Announces August 1 Tariffs — Here's the Complete List

UPDATE July 22, 2025: US President Trump States 19% for the Philippines, Indonesia

After a press conference with the President of the Philippines, Trump confirmed the 19% rates for the Philippines and Indonesia, when he posted to Truth Social.

UPDATE July 14, 2025: EU, Mexico Slapped with 30% Tariffs

President Donald Trump has expanded his administration’s tariff policy, targeting the European Union and Mexico with newly announced 30% tariffs on all products imported into the United States. Read Expana's coverage here.

UPDATE: July 10, 2025

President Trump imposed a 35% tariff...

President Trump Securing Market Access in Australia for US Beef Draws Praise

President Trump secured expanded access to Australia’s market for U.S. fresh and frozen beef, scoring a historic win for American ranchers. For over two decades, Australia imposed non-scientific barriers on U.S. beef, closing off a critical market. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, Australia opened its market to U.S. beef, scoring a major win for U.S. ranchers.

The announcement was immediately met with praise from American ranchers, stakeholders, and lawmakers:

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President and Nebraska Cattleman Buck Wehrbein: For 20 years... 

ANALYSIS: Texas Cattle Grading Prime Hits Record High in 2025

According to the USDA’s National Steer and Heifer Estimated Grading Report, Texas has reached a record high, with roughly 9% of steers and heifers grading Prime. Historically, Prime grading follows a seasonal pattern, climbing from January through late spring, early summer, before tapering off during the hotter months and into winter. However, 2025 appears to be deviating slightly from this trend for Texas specifically. Rather than peaking, Texas continues to report incremental gains, now sitting 21% above year-ago levels. This raises the question...

Dickey's Barbecue Pit Responds to Frivolous, False Lawsuit Claims

Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. has issued a statement in response to a lawsuit filed by a former Houston franchisee, asserting that the allegations are false, without merit and misrepresent the company's franchise model.

"Our franchise model is designed to empower our partners as independent business owners," said Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey's Barbecue Pit. "We provide a proven framework for success, brand standards, and a robust business model with an ongoing support system. During the development and construction process, we provide...

Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #19 

Expana’s global team of specialist reporters has been tracking every twist and turn in the fluid tariff situation.

Click to read "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #19."

This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text.

...

ANALYSIS: USDA Grading Percentages; Select Over the Years

Select-grade cattle increased this week compared to last, although levels remain lower than the previous three years. Historically, Select grading follows a pattern: it starts at a moderate level at the beginning of the year, dips to its lowest point around March or April, then rises steadily through June or July, where it holds at elevated levels until October or November before declining through the end of the year.

In recent weeks, some market participants have reported seeing more Select-graded product on...

ANALYSIS: Production in Motion as Beef Pulls Back and Chicken Steps Forward

The July 2025 USDA outlook reveals diverging trajectories across the major protein sectors, with beef production continuing to pull back while broilers and pork fill the supply gap.

Beef output is forecast to decline by nearly 3 percent to 26.188 billion pounds, driven by lower slaughter rates and lighter carcass weights in the back half of the year. This contraction signals a tightening supply environment that has ripple effects across the broader protein complex.

Broiler production is moving in the opposite direction...

China’s Australian Beef Safeguard Kicks in 75 Days Earlier This Year Following Record Exports

China’s imports of Australian beef have triggered the 2025 Special Agricultural Safeguard (SSG) as of July 24, according to the latest announcement posted on the China International Trade Single Window, a website led by China’s National Ports Administration Office. 

Despite the higher annual quota volume for this year, this means the safeguard quota was exhausted in 205 days, 75 days earlier than in 2024. The safeguard limit was activated last year on October 6.  

The China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA) took effect in...

US Republicans Continue Push to Override California Animal Welfare Law

U.S. Republicans continued on Wednesday a years-long effort to override a 2018 California law that bans the sale in the state of pork from pigs kept in tightly confined spaces, arguing in a House Agriculture Committee hearing that the law is overly burdensome to farmers.

Proposition 12, which also sets housing standards for veal and eggs sold in the state, was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2023 after a legal challenge by the pork industry.

President Donald Trump's administration sued California...

Swiss Nestlé’s Sales Down by 1.8% on 1H25; Milk Products’ Growth up by 1.1%

Nestlé's sales fell by 1.8% to CHF 44.2 billion ($50.388 billion) over the first quarter of 2025, the company’s results presented on Thursday showed. Net profit was also down on the year to CHF 5.06 billion from CHF 5.64 billion in the first half of 2024. However, organic growth was up by 2.9%.

“Sales were negatively impacted by foreign exchange movements, especially in Q2, when the Swiss Franc strengthened by 10% against the dollar, and similar amounts against other currencies...

Fortune Fish & Gourmet Showcases Premium Seafood and Meats to NBA Chefs in Las Vegas

Fortune Fish & Gourmet took center stage at the National Basketball Association (NBA) Summer League in Las Vegas last week, presenting their specialty seafood and meat products to chefs from all 30 NBA teams.

Each summer, Las Vegas hosts the NBA’s annual meetings for coaches, trainers, and the Performance Nutrition Association to discuss best practices for supporting their organizations. For the first time, NBA chefs held their own dedicated meeting in 2025, inviting Fortune Fish & Gourmet, current supplier to the Philadelphia 76ers, to present its offerings to...

What's in the EU's Countermeasures to US tariffs?

The European Union could hit the United States with counter-tariffs on 93 billion euros ($109 billion) worth of U.S. goods if the two sides fail to reach a trade deal by Washington's August 1 deadline for imposing import levies.

The European Commission has prepared two sets of possible counter-tariffs, which would be combined into one and submitted for approval to EU members. They would not be imposed until August 7.

Here is a breakdown of the two packages:

EU COUNTERMEASURES TO STEEL, ALUMINIUM TARIFFS...

PODCAST: Agri-Food for Thought Ep. 31 - Competition Heats Up at the Meat Case this Summer

Listen now as Jamie gets the scoop from Market Analyst Pete Iridoy on how pork is benefitting at retail amidst high beef prices this summer...

New Progresso Pitmaster Soups Take on Grilling Season

Fire up your appetite, not your grill. This summer, Progresso® is bringing the unmistakable taste of a backyard cookout to your kitchen with the launch of Progresso Pitmaster, a bold new line of BBQ-inspired soups packed with juicy, delicious meats, roasted vegetables and 14g of protein or more per can.

Progresso Pitmaster soups capture the bold, satisfying flavors of BBQ in a no-fuss, no-flame format. Whether you're craving a savory, rich bite of steak or the indulgent flavors of beer cheese and sausage, Progresso Pitmaster delivers the ultimate taste experience in a bowl that’s ready in just five minutes.

The Retail Rundown: Beef Edges Out Seafood in Weekly Protein Features

Beef narrowly edged out seafood for the top spot in retail protein promotions this week, making up 25.9% of all featured items. Seafood was a close second at 25.3%, while pork and chicken each accounted for about 23%. Eggs represented roughly 2% of ads, and turkey dipped below 1%.

Beef steaks remained a premium grilling choice, averaging $14.21 per pound last week. Seafood also led on price, with fresh salmon reaching as high as $17.24 per pound in some regions...

Trump Announces US-Indonesia Trade Agreement; New Details Emerge

UPDATE: July 22, 2025 4:37 PM ET

This afternoon, US President Trump posted to Truth Social after revealing a similar 19% trade deal with the Philippines, reported Expana.

"It is my Great Honor to announce our Trade Agreement with the Republic of Indonesia, as represented by their Highly Respected President, Prabowo Subianto. It is agreed that Indonesia will be Open Market to American Industrial and Tech Products, and Agricultural Goods, by eliminating 99% of their Tariff Barriers. The United States of America will now sell American Made products to Indonesia..."

Trump Signs Landmark US-Japan Trade Deal, Slashes Tariffs to 15%

United States President Donald Trump announced this week that he had signed what he described as “perhaps the largest deal ever made” with Japan, aimed at reshaping trade relations between the two countries. The agreement sets a new 15% tariff rate on all Japanese products imported into the US, a notable decrease from the 25% rate imposed earlier this month, as Expana reported.

According to President Trump, the deal is expected to create hundreds of jobs in the United States and will require Japan to open its markets further...

OpenTable and KAYAK Unveil Top 100 Hotel Restaurants Amid Growing Trend of Culinary-Driven Travel

According to new insights from OpenTable and KAYAK, travelers are increasingly choosing their destinations based on where they want to eat.

An OpenTable survey reveals that 47% of Americans have planned a trip specifically to visit a restaurant. Similarly, KAYAK reported a 51% year-over-year increase in travelers using the “restaurant” filter when searching for hotels.

In response to this trend, the two companies have partnered to release their first-ever list of the "Top 100 Hotel Restaurants in America...

US-Philippines Trade Relations Televised; 19% Tariff Rate Reached

On July 22, US President Trump participated in a bilateral meeting with Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. 

“... We concluded our Trade Deal, whereby The Philippines is going OPEN MARKET with the United States, and ZERO Tariffs,” wrote President Trump on Truth Social after the meeting. “The Philippines will pay a 19% Tariff. In addition, we will work together Militarily. It was a Great Honor to be with the President. He is Highly Respected in his Country, as he should be. He is also a very good, and tough, negotiator..."

Smashburger Expands with Seasonal, Value Menus

Smashburger, one of the nation’s leading better-burger fast casual concepts, is expanding its menu this summer as part of a broader strategy to drive traffic and increase customer engagement.

The brand has launched two new menu initiatives: the "Summer of Smash" limited-time menu and a new All-The-Time Menu aimed at price-sensitive consumers.

The Summer of Smash menu features the debut of the All-Angus Big Dog, available in four builds: Americana, Bacon Cheese, Chili Cheese, and Chili Cheese Jalapeño...

Princes Acquires Historic Liverpool Building as New UK Headquarters

Yesterday, leading UK food and drink company Princes announced its purchase of the historic, Grade-I listed Royal Liver Building (RLB) in Liverpool, England for £60 million (USD $70.33 million).

According to the company, the acquisition is part of Princes’ broader £83 million (USD $97.29 million) real estate plan, which includes the purchase of Symington’s Cross Green facility in Leeds, England, for £23 million (USD $26.96 million). Also, acquiring the Cross Green site will further embed Symington’s business, which Princes already manages and operates, into...

ANALYSIS: China’s Meat Imports Pull Back 2.8% YOY to 3.20M mt in 1H 2025

China imported 3,201,497 metric tons (mt) of meat, including variety meats, in the first half of 2025, down 2.84% (93,721 mt) from the same period last year, according to preliminary data from the General Administration of Customs (GACC).

China’s uneven economic recovery kept pressure on consumer spending, with sluggish demand in the dining sector continuing to weigh on import growth. Rising domestic production also contributed to limiting import volumes.

Government efforts to rein in extravagant official spending have cast a shadow over premium dining...

ANALYSIS: China’s 1H 2025 Beef Imports Slumps 9.5% YOY to 1.30M mt

China’s total beef imports shrunk 9.5% to 1,302,197 metric tons (mt) in the first half of the 2025 calendar year, according to the latest data from the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC).

Shipments declined by 136,640 mt, led by lower volumes from most major suppliers. Australia was the exception, partially offsetting the overall drop.

The decline stemmed from a combination of rising domestic production and soft consumer demand amid a challenging macroeconomic backdrop. Trade tensions and a weakened dining sector further...

ANALYSIS: Ham Rally Fueled by Tight Supplies, Strong Exports and Tariff Tensions

From May through mid-July 2025, the bone-in ham market has undergone a sharp and dynamic rally—arguably the most pronounced seasonal move in over a decade. This year’s trajectory not only played a central role in driving the broader 9-week pork cutout rally that began in mid-April, but also set a new seasonal benchmark. Prices kicked off May at $0.85/lb and surged to a high of $1.26/lb by the week of June 23, marking a 47.4% increase in just under... 

ANALYSIS: US Pork Trim Market Holds Firm

In the pork trim market, prices for both 42% and 72% material have moved higher in recent days, reaching 52-week highs. Contributing factors include stronger demand, a roughly 1.9% year-to-date decline in hog slaughter, and a seasonal downtrend in hog weights tied to warmer weather.

As of mid-July 2025, 72% trim was reported at $1.40/lb, while 42% trim reached $1.245/lb. This is a sharp rise compared to late December 2024, when 42% trim was under $0.40/lb and 72%...

Subway Names Jonathan Fitzpatrick as Chief Executive Officer

Subway, one of the world's largest restaurant brands, today announced that Jonathan Fitzpatrick will join the company as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective July 28, 2025, following a comprehensive search.

With more than two decades of franchising and quick service restaurant experience, Fitzpatrick has a proven track record of elevating sales and operational performance across global networks. Most recently, he served as President and CEO of Driven Brands where he led a best-in-class team to 17 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth...

USDA Appoints New FSIS Administrator, Announces Five-Point Food Safety Plan

Last week, Dr. Justin Ransom assumed the role of FSIS Administrator, leading the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). Under this role, Dr. Ransom will oversee the FSIS, ensuring the safety, wholesomeness, and proper labeling of U.S. commercial meat, poultry, and processed egg products.

The presidential appointment was first announced by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins on July 3, with Dr. Ransom officially assuming the role on July 14. 

The FSIS is a federal agency under the USDA responsible for ensuring food...

FMI 2025 Report Highlights Food Industry Shifts Amid Consumer, Economic and Supply Chain Pressures

The Food Industry Association (FMI) has released its 76th annual report, “The Food Retailing Industry Speaks 2025,” offering a look into how the industry is advancing as the modern grocery experience continues to evolve.  

The report highlights strategies adopted by food retailers and suppliers, as they adapt to the shifting expectations of consumers, supply chain challenges, and economic pressures.  

Bracing for continued disruptions  

According to the report, about 80% of food retailers and suppliers expect trade policies and tariffs to affect pricing and...

The New "Coke of America”? 

Call it bipartisan, call it good taste... US President Donald Trump’s latest truth may be exciting nostalgic beverage enthusiasts from left, to center, and right. The President is calling for cane sugar in US Coke cans and bottles going forward. 

“I have been speaking to Coca-Cola about using REAL Cane Sugar in Coke in the United States, and they have agreed to do so,” wrote Trump. “I’d like to thank all of those in authority at Coca-Cola. This will be a very good move by them — You’ll see. It’s just better!” 

ANALYSIS: Australian Beef on the Brink of China’s Safeguard Trigger

China’s imports of Australian beef are inching very close to triggering the 2025 Special Agricultural Safeguard (SSG), fueling fresh concerns across the trade that Most-Favored Nation (MFN) tariffs could be activated within the next two weeks.

There had been renewed optimism after Australia’s latest export figures suggested the trigger might be delayed until mid-August. But market sources now say that is increasingly unlikely, as importers have recently moved to shore up large volumes ahead of the threshold.

Australia’s grain-fed beef has gained traction rapidly in China's...

Letters to Brazil: Trump Cites "Witch Hunt" While Charging 50% Tariff

US President Trump has charged 50% tariffs on Brazilian imports to the States, according to a letter to Brazilian President Lula.

This week, reciprocal tariffs were re-announced in the form of letters from the US Trump administration to trading partners who could not reach a deal within the previously granted 90-day pause. And what a fun week it's been for tariffs' "watchers on the wall."

Letters to 22 trading partners were sent with new tariff rates that will be implemented on August 1...

UNFI Posts Solid Quarterly Results and Revises 2025 Outlook Following Cyber Incident

American grocery wholesaler United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) released its quarterly results and updated its full-year outlook for fiscal 2025 on Wednesday, following consistent success across three consecutive quarters.

“With a proven multi-year strategy and consistent execution through the third quarter of fiscal 2025, we are confident in our underlying momentum and our ability to achieve our multi-year financial targets at an accelerated pace compared to the initial targets we communicated in October 2024,” said Sandy Douglas, CEO of UNFI...

Unlocking Pork Quality with Precision: See the Difference Marbling Makes

Two pork loins. Similar color. Different marbling. One leads to a juicy, flavorful eating experience—while the other may disappoint. While subjective, visual assessment can miss the mark, BioQScan® Core empowers meat processors to objectively identify high-quality pork using real-time, non-invasive estimates of intramuscular fat (IMF). This allows processors to identify premium product at the speed of the production line.

Developed for small and mid-sized meat processors, BioQScan® Core provides real-time estimates of intramuscular fat (IMF), backfat thickness, and loin... 

The Retail Rundown: Summer Travel Drives Foodservice Gains as Retailers Compete for Shoppers

Foodservice is in full swing this summer, fueled by warm weather and vacation season as consumers hit the road and dine out. This Fourth of July, AAA estimated a record 72.2 million Americans traveled domestically—a 2.4% increase from last year and 7 million more than in 2019.

“This year, we're seeing strong demand for road trips, flights, and cruises, especially with the holiday falling on a Friday,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of AAA Travel.

With so much consumer attention on travel and dining out, food...

National Restaurant Association Applauds Trump Tax Bill for Boosting Industry Jobs and Growth

President Donald Trump’s One Big, Beautiful Bill features tax policies that will assist the restaurant and foodservice industry, the National Restaurant Association said.

The group stated that the bill will enable restaurant owners and operators nationwide to “create jobs, invest in their business, and provide certainty for their local economies.”

“The restaurant industry is a powerful economic engine – generating over $1.4 trillion in annual economic activity and employing more than 15 million people nationwide,” said Michelle Korsmo, President & CEO of the National Restaurant Association...

Why Expana’s New Beef Forecast Deserve Your Attention

In a strategic move to bolster its comprehensive red meat market coverage, Expana is introducing a new price forecast for US 167A 4 Round, Knuckle, Peeled Beef. 

While the company already delivers over 300 red meat price forecasting series, this new addition seals a crucial gap for stakeholders whose contracts and margins hinge on cut-specific pricing. 

“Forecasting is essential for businesses looking to better understand market dynamics and to make better commercial decisions,” explained Bruno Whittaker, Forecast Analyst at Expana.” 

“Our forecasts are built on historical...

US Tariffs on Brazilian Imports Spark Cross-Commodity Concerns

On July 9, US President Donald Trump moved to raise tariffs on Brazilian imports to 50% starting August 1—up sharply from the 10% rate imposed in early April—sparking concerns in global markets, with potential ripple effects across commodities like orange juice, beef, coffee, sugar, and seafood.

These trade measures are raising alarms in export-dependent sectors and among US importers, with market participants saying the implications could be wide-ranging.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said the country would respond to the newly announced tariff...

Applebee’s Expands 2 for $25 Menu with New Entrées

Applebee’s is adding new options to its long-running 2 for $25 value menu, continuing a strategy that dates back to its original 2 for $20 deal launched in 2008. The offer aims to deliver accessible pricing amid shifting consumer demand and rising food costs.

The latest limited-time additions include two new entrees and a fan favorite:

• Chicken Parmesan Fettuccine – Breaded chicken breast with marinara and Parmesan over fettuccine in a Parmesan cream sauce, served with a garlic breadstick.
• Big Bangin’ Burger – Beef patty with American...

ANALYSIS: Growth of Brazilian Beef Exports to the Mexican Market

The Mexican beef import market showed a notable surge in Brazil's export volumes in June 2025, with levels reaching the highest point since the initiation of the Package Against Inflation and Scarcity (PACIC, acronym in Spanish) in 2022, which eliminates tariffs on beef imports from Brazil. Data reveals a significant uptick, with June 2025 exports reaching 16,170 metric tons, a clear contrast to the 3,666 metric tons recorded in June 2024 and the 76 metric tons in June 2023. This escalation reflects...

ANALYSIS: US Retail Ground Beef Prices the Week Before the Fourth of July Year-Over-Year

With cattle slaughter levels being lower and beef rising in price, for most items at the retail level grinds were no exception. The Fourth of July is a holiday widely known for its grinds demand historically at the retail level. This year, grind prices towered over 2024 levels for discounted and non-discounted values at the retail level. The percentage increase for the total average price for all blends, non-discounted and discounted, was...

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JBS Invests More Than US $7 Million in Traceability and Support for Small Producers in Pará

JBS has invested more than US$ 7 million in cattle traceability and support for small producers in Pará, as part of a pioneering state program that aims to trace the entire herd of cattle and buffaloes in the region by the end of 2026. The results of JBS's initiatives were presented during the "Expedition to the Sustainable Meat and Leather Market of Pará," an event promoted by the Nature Conservancy (TNC) Brazil.

The initiative is part of a broader collation involving...

Trump Letters Reveal August 1 Tariff Rates for Key US Trading Partners

The Trump administration was busy after the Fourth of July holiday, as the President sent out a litany of letters to US trading partners revealing what their tariff rate would be starting on August 1.

Over the weekend, President Donald Trump and members of the administration announced that letters would begin rolling out showcasing new tariff rates for countries. The letters came at a rapid pace on Monday afternoon, with messages dispatched to the leaders of Japan, South Korea and South Africa, to name a few...

Conagra Posts Decline in Sales and Profit for Q4 and FY2025

Conagra Brands has reported financial results for both the fiscal year and fourth quarter.

For the quarter, net sales declined 3.5%, driven by a 2.5% drop in volume and a 1.0% negative price/mix impact. Gross profit fell 12.1% to $707 million, as margins were pressured by inflation and weaker sales. Net income was $256 million ($0.53 per share), while adjusted EPS came in at $0.56. Adjusted EBITDA totaled $544 million.

For fiscal year 2025, net sales declined... 

ANALYSIS: Brazil’s Latest Tariff Blitz Set to Redraw US Beef Import Landscape

Washington’s sudden decision on July 9 to impose a 50% tariff hike on Brazilian beef imports, effective August 1, is rattling the world’s largest beef market and potentially disrupting one of its largest supply lines.  

Brazil accounted for nearly 30% of the United States (US) imported frozen boneless beef so far in 2025, making this tariff a seismic shock to American buyers and suppliers.

Brazil already faced a 26.4% out-of-quota tariff after taking a significant role in filling the   65,000 metric tons (mt) “other country” beef...

ANALYSIS: US 2025 Top Butts Set Record Highs

As we move deeper into summer and the last major grilling holiday before Labor Day is behind us, it’s a good time to revisit a 2025 standout: the top sirloin butt.

With constrained supplies heading into grilling season, many retail and foodservice buyers turned to top butts as a more economical alternative to ribeyes and strips. However, reduced cattle slaughter and record-high cash cattle prices pushed boxed beef values higher across the board, even for these “value cuts.”

In late June, the...

Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #17

Expana’s global team of specialist reporters has been tracking every twist and turn in the fluid tariff situation.

Click to read "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #17."

This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text...

This week, reciprocal tariffs were re-announced in the form of letters from the US Trump administration to trading partners who could not reach a trade deal within the previously granted 90-day pause...

Global Appetite for Australian Red Meat Continues at Pace: New Records in Exports for FY2024–25

Australia’s red meat industry exported new record volumes of beef and mutton in the 2024-2025 financial year.

According to Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), total beef and veal exports for the financial year reached 1.4 million tonnes, the highest annual volume ever. Mutton exports also hit a new record at 256,104 tonnes. Lamb exports totalled 363,109 tonnes, making it the second-largest financial year for lamb exports.

June 2025 alone saw 134,593 tonnes of beef exported, marking the highest...

USDA Responds to New NWS Case with Livestock Trade Restrictions

On Tuesday, reports emerged of a new case of New World Screwworm (NWS) in Ixhuatlán de Madero, Veracruz, Mexico. This detection is located approximately 160 miles north of the current sterile fly dispersal grid and about 370 miles south of the US–Mexico border.

Earlier cases were reported in Oaxaca and Veracruz in May, prompting the closure of US ports to Mexican cattle, bison, and horses. At the end of June, the USDA announced a phased reopening strategy to begin...

Burger King Invites Guests to Shape the Menu with New “Whopper by You” Platform

Staying true to its promise, Burger King is giving guests the chance to quite literally “Have it [Their] Way” all summer long.

Beginning July 15 and for a limited time, fans can submit their dream Whopper builds via the brand’s new interactive “Whopper by You” platform.

To kick off the campaign, BK is rolling out its first guest-inspired creation: the BBQ Brisket Whopper and BBQ Brisket Whopper Jr.

The BBQ Brisket Whopper features slow-cooked BBQ brisket, crispy onions, American cheese...

Trump Tariff Letters Continue to Roll Out; Philippines Faces 20% Tariff

President Trump has sent a new batch of letters to several countries, including the Philippines, notifying them of new US tariff rates set to take effect on August 1, giving them a short window to renegotiate trade terms before the deadline.

On July 8, Trump stated that a minimum of seven countries would be released, with an additional group to be released in the afternoon.

Despite multiple tariff implementation delays already, Trump was steadfast and set August 1 as a hard deadline in a social media...

Former USDA Economist Looks at How Trade Disputes and Geopolitics Are Reshaping Agri-Food

As global supply chains face intensifying pressure from geopolitical tensions, climate variability and shifting consumer demands, agri-food leaders are constantly rethinking their procurement strategies.

At Expana’s Agri-Food Americas event on September 23-24 in Chicago, these themes take center stage in the panel discussion “How Geopolitical Uncertainty, Tariffs, and Trade are Impacting Food & Ag”.

Conflict and policy shifts can destabilize your supply chain and disrupt sourcing. This panel will offer expert insights into international affairs so you can adapt quickly...

ANALYSIS: US Boneless Beef Imports Fall in June After a Rush in May

The US imported 81,285 metric tons (mt) of boneless beef in June, according to the latest Food Safety and Inspection Service Report. Compared to May, this is a decrease of 8,420 mt or 9.4%. Volumes in May grew as market participants worked quickly to get material in the country before the new tariff implementation.

 June posted a jump of 23,787 mt or 41.4% year-over-year (YOY), with 2025 continuing to stay well above 2024 levels. As...

ANALYSIS: Pork Exports Drop in May with Offsetting Gains from Mexico and South America

In May, total US pork exports declined 3.7% year-over-year with the month-over-month total also lower 3.1% versus April.

Mexico, continued to be the top destination, booking 218.4 million pounds, up 6.4% month-over-month and 3.9% year-over-year. Even though volumes cooled slightly from March to April, year-to-date exports remain near the record-breaking levels of 2024.  The United States Meat Export Federation (USMEF) attributes the upswing not to tariff shifts, but to strong Mexican demand and competitive...

The Retail Rundown: Retailers Push Value to Maintain Protein Momentum

Retail meat clearance over the Independence Day holiday was generally strong, with consumers stocking up on grilling staples for the summer’s flagship cookout occasion.

With few major buying events remaining this summer, grocers will likely push aggressive features and highlight value finds to sustain shopper engagement through the dog days of summer.

Post-holiday protein advertisements show seafood maintaining the lead at 33.1% of retail features, followed by beef at 25.1% and pork at 21.5%. Chicken accounted for 16.2%, while turkey fell to just 2%—half of the previous week's...

Wendy’s Names Interim CEO Amid Leadership Changes

Wendy’s announced the appointment of its Interim CEO Tuesday, following reports of its current President and CEO, Kirk Tanner's resignation. Tanner will depart for The Hershey Company effective July 18.

In response, the Wendy’s Board of Directors has launched a comprehensive search process to identify a permanent CEO.

Meanwhile, Chief Financial Officer Ken Cook has been appointed by the Board to serve as Interim CEO until Tanner’s successor is in place.

"It has been a privilege to lead Wendy's, an iconic brand, and I leave with a sense of gratitude...

JBS Ships First Beef Cargo to Vietnam

JBS has exported 27 tons of beef to Vietnam, the Brazilian company said. This is the first shipment to the country by JBS. The beef originated from JBS’ Mozarlândia plant, one of the two plants recently authorized for beef exports to Vietnam. The other approved facility was JBS’ Goiânia processing plant.

Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with Brazil’s Minister of Agriculture Carlos Fávaro earlier this week as part of the prime minister’s visit to Rio de Janeiro for the BRICS Summit. During the visit, the prime minister attended...

ANALYSIS: Brazil’s Beef Exports Reached 1.28 Million mt in 1H-2025, Up 36% YOY

The latest data released by Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services revealed that the country exported 241,092 mt of fresh beef (chilled and frozen) in June, down 9.7% MoM but 2.9% higher than June 2024. This brings total shipments in the first half of 2025 to 1,286,729 mt, reflecting a notable 36% growth compared to the same period last year.

Brazilian beef exports to China showed solid growth in the first half of 2025, reaching 631,720 mt...

ANALYSIS: Australia Delivers Record Beef Exports in June 2025, 1H Up 16.8% YOY

Australia’s beef exports surged to a record high in June 2025, reaching 134,596 metric tons (mt), according to data from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). The volume topped the previous peak set in October 2024 by 4,548 mt and marked a third straight month of growth.

Robust demand from China, Canada, Japan and Korea underpinned the gains, while shipments to its largest destination, the United States (US) declined. On a monthly basis, volumes climbed 4.0% or 5,118 mt...

US to Impose 25% Tariff on Japanese and Korean Imports Starting August 1

President Donald Trump's tariff letters are being rolled out, with Korea and Japan at the forefront. In identical letters released on July 7, the administration announced that both countries will face a 25% tariff on all goods imported into the United States, effective August 1.

In identical letters sent to the leaders of both countries, Trump declared that the US would impose the tariffs “on any and all Korean (Japanese) products sent into the US,” including goods transshipped through third countries in an attempt to bypass the...

ANALYSIS: Post-Suspension Outlook for Mexican Cattle Imports

The USDA’s announcement of a phased reopening of southern ports for livestock trade, effective as early as July 7, 2025, marks a significant moment for the Mexican export market for feeder cattle to the US, following a second suspension initiated in May 2025. This follows an initial suspension in November 2024, triggered by the detection of New World Screwworm (NWS) in southern Mexico, with trade resuming in February 2025 after a rigorous pre-clearance inspection protocol was established. The latest closure, driven by...

US Pushes Tariff Deadline to August, Trump Administration Expects Surge in Deals

President Donald Trump said on July 6 that the US is nearing several new trade deals and that letters will be sent to trading partners by July 9, warning of increased tariffs set to take effect on August 1.

The move effectively extends the administration’s trade deadline from July 9 to August 1, giving Trump more time to finalize agreements. So far, the U.S. has signed just two deals—one with the United Kingdom and another with Vietnam, as Expana reported last week...

Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #16

Expana’s global team of specialist reporters has been tracking every twist and turn in the fluid tariff situation.

Click to read "Tariff Talks 2025: Expana's Weekly Rundown #16."

This report allows the Expana community to see where key commodity markets stand as of this past week... Click the above PDF report, or keep scrolling to read in plain text...