Central Illinois Farmer Sees Benefits in Boosting Meat Exports to Japan

Central Illinois farmer John Klemm recently returned from a USMEF mission trip to Japan, where he witnessed firsthand the benefits of boosting meat exports.

Klemm, who raises corn and cattle in DeWitt County and serves as a director on the Illinois Corn Marketing Board, says the trip was eye-opening. He toured processing facilities, met with representatives from the US Embassy, and spoke with actual buyers to learn what the Japanese market is looking for.

The USMEF has been promoting U.S. products in Japan for 50 years, making it a mature market with growth still possible. According to Klemm, Japan's demand for U.S. beef tongue and intestine - referred to as variety meats - is high due to cultural preferences that are not typically used in the United States.

Klemm believes that corn farmers supporting the efforts of livestock producers to expand their markets can increase profitability for both sectors. By feeding more livestock and exporting additional meat, more corn will be moved, benefiting both the corn and cattle industries.