OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s beef exports have reached an all-time high as the state saw a significant increase in overseas sales.

The state’s Department of Agriculture said Friday that the approximately $1 billion worth of beef purchased by foreign buyers through November sets a new record.

Ag Director Greg Ibach says markets such as Japan, Hong Kong and South Korea, have increased Nebraska beef purchases over the past six years. The state has conducted trade promotions in each of these countries.

Muscle meat exports have more than tripled since 2009. Exports of beef products generally not favored in the United States, such as beef livers and tongues, have grown as well. Nebraska sold $93 million worth of such goods in 2014, compared to $32.3 million in 2009.