March 8, 2004

US Takes Major Step Towards Reopening Canadian Beef Trade

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's decision to reopen a comment period that would amend regulations on the importation of animals and animal products from countries, including Canada, with a minimal risk of bovine spongiform encephalopathy, or mad-cow disease, was good news for Canada's cattle producers, according to a release from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Minister Bob Speller.
 
"The U.S. has taken another major step today in the process of reopening the border to live Canadian cattle and other ruminants," Speller said. "The U.S. has set things in motion again and it's our hope that the process moves quickly and that the border reopens as soon as possible."
 
If finalized, the rule would allow certain classes of live Canadian cattle and other ruminants to be imported into the United States for the first time since May 20, 2003.
 
Speller was also encouraged by the possibility of movement on products made from cattle older than 30 months. He said since Canada and the U.S. have ensured Specified Risk Materials are prevented from entering the human food chain, there is no reason to restrict trade in older animals or their products.
 
Speller said he has been in close contact with USDA Secretary Ann Veneman on this issue and thanked her for moving quickly for the good of industries on both sides of the border.
 
The 30-day comment period for the USDA rule will open on March 8 and close April 7.