January 12, 2011
Japan-imported beef from Canada returns to pre-BSE levels
Imports of Canadian beef to Japan were at their record levels in the first 11 months of 2010 since the BSE outbreak prior to 2003.
The Canadian Beef Export Federation said Japan's imports of Canadian beef totalled 13,277 tonnes, worth US$67 million, in the first 11 months of 2010. Those values are 81% higher than the same period in 2009. Prior to the BSE outbreak, Japan purchased 29,000 tonnes worth of beef valued at US$171 million from Canada.
Japan has slowly reopened its beef market to Canada, but with heavy restrictions and regulations. Canada currently ships only boneless and bone-in beef and offal from cattle under 21 months of age to Japan. Beef demand in Japan has risen as strength in the country's currency and purchasing power has increased.
