By Dana Waters, originally published in Petfood Processing
WASHINGTON — US pet food exports demonstrated resilience in 2025 despite global trade uncertainty and economic pressures. Total exports reached $2.44 billion, a 3.5% decrease from 2024, reflecting shifting tariffs and market conditions. Even with this decline, the United States remained a leading global supplier, driven by strong demand for safe, high-quality pet food.
North America continued to anchor US pet food exports, with Canada leading at $1.19 billion and Mexico at approximately $260 million in 2025. China and Hong Kong combined accounted for over $272 million, while Japan and Australia remained steady, high-value markets. These core partners highlight the importance of stable trade relationships in sustaining export growth.
Export diversification accelerated in 2025, with growth across Central America (+2.7%), the European Union (+5.5%), and Sub-Saharan Africa (nearly +40%). Markets such as Costa Rica, Guatemala and Panama continue to expand, reflecting rising pet ownership and income growth. While smaller in total value, these regions represent important long-term opportunities for US exporters.
Uncertainty around tariff structures and broader geopolitical factors may shape export conditions in 2026. Changes in trade policies could also affect the import of specialized ingredients not available in the United States, potentially disrupting production and increasing costs for manufacturers. In addition, supply chain disruptions, currency volatility, and global conflicts may further complicate market access and planning. In response, US pet food companies are investing in more flexible supply chains and diversifying export markets to mitigate risk.
The outlook for US pet food exports remains positive as global demand for high-quality pet nutrition continues to grow. Strong collaboration with the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) — including the Foreign Agricultural Service and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service — remains critical to supporting market access and export growth.
Building on this partnership, the Pet Food Institute (PFI) will continue addressing regulatory barriers in both established and emerging markets, supported by funding through USDA’s Regional Agricultural Promotion Program. At the same time, PFI’s participation in the USDA Market Access Program helps promote US pet food in key international markets. Working collaboratively with our pet food association partners through the Global Alliance of Pet Food Associations (GAPFA), PFI continues to advocate for science-based international standards to facilitate global trade.
Looking ahead, PFI is focused on identifying new growth opportunities and ensuring US exporters have the tools, resources, and connections needed to enter and succeed in new markets with confidence. Alongside our leadership in GAPFA, these efforts will help support continued expansion and resilience for the industry in 2026 and beyond.
