Key Points
- U.S. dog and cat food exports grew by 20% in 2022, reaching $2.4 billion
- The industry adapted swiftly to challenges such as inflation, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), and supply chain disruptions.
- The Pet Food Institute (PFI) played a crucial role in supporting U.S. pet food makers.
In the bustling ports of the United States, the shipping containers emblazoned with logos of pet food brands highlight a notable trend: U.S. pet food exports are booming. According to the USDA Global Agricultural Trade System, dog and cat food exports increased by 20% in 2022, reaching a value of $2.4 billion. This impressive growth has persisted despite the myriad of challenges that the industry has faced.
Overcoming Obstacles
The past year has been anything but straightforward for U.S. pet food exporters. Rising inflation, the detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in the U.S., and continuing supply chain disruptions have all posed significant hurdles. Yet, the industry has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability. A key player in this success story is the Pet Food Institute (PFI), which has been instrumental in providing unique services to help U.S. pet food makers expand their markets and discover new opportunities.
Strategic Investments and Global Standards
PFI’s strategic investment in global standard setting, through its membership in the Global Alliance of Pet Food Associations (GAPFA), proved invaluable when HPAI was detected across 47 states in early 2022. GAPFA works with the World Animal Health Organization (WOAH) to establish science-based standards for pet food safety. These standards, recognizing properly heat-treated poultry as a safe commodity, allowed U.S. pet food exports to continue even amidst the HPAI outbreak. This ensured that most trading partners adhered to international standards, though there is still work to be done to ensure global consistency.
Promoting U.S. Pet Food Globally
PFI, as the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service Market Access Program (MAP) cooperator for U.S. pet food, receives government funding to promote U.S. agricultural products worldwide. This funding supports various activities in 17 countries, including marketing campaigns, training for local veterinarians in dog and cat nutrition, and collaborations with local rescue groups to promote animal welfare. These initiatives, led by in-country representatives under PFI’s direction, have bolstered the reputation of U.S. pet food as a high-quality and safe choice in overseas markets, driving demand.
Market Tracker: A Tool for Growth
To further aid U.S. pet food makers, PFI developed the Market Tracker, a comprehensive tool providing relevant trade and market information for countries where PFI operates under the MAP program. The Market Tracker offers insights on overviews, trends, forecasts, and market drivers, helping businesses assess, compare, and prioritize international opportunities. This tool is readily accessible on the PFI website and serves as a valuable resource for industry stakeholders.
Looking Ahead
As we progress through 2023, the Pet Food Institute remains committed to advocating for U.S. pet food makers. Their focus is on expanding markets and supporting science-based regulatory measures to sustain the upward trajectory of U.S. pet food exports. The future looks promising as the industry continues to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in the global market.
This article is based on original reporting by The Pet Food Institute.
