February 9, 2006

Malaysia may ban Australian beef imports
 

Malaysia may impose a ban on Australian beef imports over slaughtering methods which make them unfit for Muslim consumption, Agriculture Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said.

Beef imports from Australia, which were suspended by Malaysia in mid-2005, may be banned completely if the Australian authorities do not ensure that cattle are slaughtered according to Islamic requirements.

The issue has dragged on for too long without any action from the Australian authorities, Muhyiddin said.

Halal certification was withdrawn from nine slaughterhouses in Australia when they did not meet Malaysia's Islamic food standards.

At the abattoirs, animals were rendered unconscious with a device before being killed. This device caused brain haemorrhages, which went against Islamic teachings, said Muhyiddin.

According to Islam, animals must be slaughtered and processed using approved or halal methods for it to be consumed by Muslims.

Muhyiddin also hinted that the ministry may look to China for an alternative supply of halal beef. Four abattoirs have been certified halal by Malaysia but imports are still relatively small, Muhyiddin said. There is still hope for the situation in Australia to be rectified, he added.

A decision would be reached after his meeting with the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service in March, he said.

In 2004, Malaysia imported Australian meat and livestock products worth about A$90 million (US$66.6 million).