During 2025, the sheep sector in the United States showed positive growth, primarily driven by strong demand and the consolidation of lamb as a value-added product within the meat market. Despite a changing economic climate, American consumers continued to prioritize quality products, combining regular consumption with more select and differentiated choices.
This is according to the industry publication Eurocarne. In the retail sector, lamb has strengthened its position with significant growth in sales value. This progress is explained both by sustained high prices and by continued consumer interest, as lamb is perceived as a premium option compared to other proteins.
A key aspect is the rise of domestically sourced lamb, which is gaining ground against imported products. This growth reflects a greater preference for local products, driven by factors such as traceability, perceived quality, and support for domestic production.
However, the market remains constrained by a limited supply. Although production has remained stable and the sheep population hovers around five million head, availability remains tight. This situation helps sustain high prices, but it also highlights the need to increase production in a planned manner to avoid imbalances in the medium and long term.
At the same time, imports continue to be key to supplying the market, despite having decreased slightly compared to the previous year. Their share remains significant, demonstrating that domestic production still does not fully meet existing demand.
Regarding consumption trends, a diversification in the formats demanded is observed. The products that stand out are those that are easy to prepare and suitable for more everyday consumption. In this respect, ground lamb leads the growth, followed by cuts such as leg and shoulder chops, which are also gaining ground in both volume and value.
Overall, the US sheep market is moving towards a model in which lamb maintains its positioning as a premium product, but expands its presence in everyday consumption thanks to a more versatile and accessible offering.
