U.S.: Lamb and Mutton Imports Volume, by year
YearImports,
in million pounds
2024305
2023284
2022358
2021364
2020302
2019272
2018273
2017252
2016216
2015214
2014195
2013173
2012154
2011162
2010166
2009171
2008183
2007203
2006190
  • Region: United States
  • Time period: 2006 to 2023
  • Published: Feb 2024

Data Analysis and Insights

Updated: Mar 28, 2024 | Published by: Statistico | About Us | Data sources

Peak of Imports in 2021

The highest import volume was recorded in 2021 with 364 million pounds. This peak suggests a notable increase in demand or a temporary surge in supply that year, underscoring a significant point in the U.S. lamb and mutton import history.

Recent Decline in Imports

Imports in 2024 have decreased to 305 million pounds from the peak of 364 million pounds in 2021, marking a 16.2% decline over three years. This trend might reflect changes in consumer preference, trade policies, or other economic factors influencing the lamb and mutton market.

Steady Growth from 2006 to 2021

The data shows a steady increase in imports from 190 million pounds in 2006 to 364 million pounds in 2021, highlighting a long-term growth trend over 15 years. This indicates a sustained rise in either consumption needs or a shift towards import reliance for lamb and mutton in the U.S.

Volatility in Yearly Imports

Yearly fluctuations are evident, such as the sudden drop from 364 million pounds in 2021 to 302 million pounds in 2020, followed by a rebound in 2022 and another decrease in 2023 and 2024. These swings suggest that the lamb and mutton import market is subject to volatility, possibly influenced by external factors like global market conditions, weather patterns affecting lamb and mutton production, or changes in import tariffs.

Lowest Imports in the Early Years

The period of 2006 to 2013 marked the lowest import volumes, starting from 190 million pounds in 2006 and gradually increasing to 173 million pounds in 2013. This phase of relatively low imports could be indicative of lower demand or higher domestic production during those years.

Import Growth Rate Comparison

Comparing the growth rate from 2006 (190 million pounds) to 2014 (195 million pounds) with the rate from 2014 to 2024 (305 million pounds) showcases a significant acceleration in import volume over the latter period. The more pronounced increase in the second decade underscores a growing dependence on imported lamb and mutton.

2022: The Year of Sudden Increase

The year 2022 saw a notable rise in imports to 358 million pounds, just slightly below the 2021 peak, after a drop in 2020. This recovery indicates a strong market response or a correction after the previous year's decline, highlighting the dynamic nature of the import market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What year had the highest volume of U.S. mutton and lamb imports?

The highest import volume of mutton and lamb was in 2021, with 364 million pounds imported.

Terms and Definitions

The meat from a young sheep, specifically one that's under a year old. It's a popular designation of meat in various culinary traditions and is a fundamental supply in many food industries.

The term used to denote the flesh of an adult sheep used as food. It’s more mature than lamb and generally has a stronger flavor and tougher texture.

A marketplace where final goods or services are traded to individuals who consume them to satisfy their needs and wants. The U.S. consumer market is the end consumer of the imported lamb and mutton in the specific context.

A complex, comprehensive network of diverse businesses that supply much of the food and food energy consumed by the world population. It is indirectly referenced here, being the primary industry that deals with lamb and mutton products.