World Cup Boosts Mexican Meat Exports; ANETIF Projects Up to 12% Growth

The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup is poised to significantly boost Mexico's meat exports, with projections indicating a growth of 5% to 12%. Raúl Riquelme, Director General of the National Association of Federal Inspection Type Establishments (ANETIF), stated that this surge in demand will benefit various meat products, including beef, chicken, pork, processed meats, and cuts ready for grilling or cooking.

Riquelme highlighted the World Cup as a major opportunity to stimulate growth in Mexico's meat sector, both for domestic consumption and exports, with a particular focus on North American markets. Meat products bearing the TIF seal, which guarantees safety, security, and hygiene, will be distributed through ANETIF's export partners and the National Association of Self-Service and Department Stores (ANTAD).

The Mexican meat market was valued at 505 billion pesos in 2025, with a per capita consumption of 85.3 kilograms, a record high. Chicken is the most consumed meat in Mexico, followed by pork and beef. ANTAD forecasts that the World Cup could increase sales in supermarkets and convenience stores by up to 30%. Additionally, neighborhood commerce is expected to see a 20% to 25% direct impact, while sales of beverages and snacks could rise by up to 35% during match times.

Beyond retail, the event is expected to drive sales in the restaurant and hotel sectors. This presents challenges in maintaining efficient cold chain management, logistics, and ensuring compliance with sanitary and regulatory standards. In 2025, Mexico exported 463,000 tons of meat, primarily to the United States, Japan, Canada, South Korea, Hong Kong, Guatemala, and Singapore. The main export products are beef, followed by pork and then chicken. Imports totaled 3.337 million tons.

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without a doubt, the World Cup represents a great opportunity to detonate the growth of the meat sector in Mexico, both in domestic consumption and in exports, especially to North America.