April 18, 2006

Russia seeks Colombia as new source of beef

Russia will shortly begin importing frozen beef from Colombia, the Agriculture Ministry said.

Russian authorities said they decided to allow imports of frozen off-the-bone beef from Colombia for industrial processing as they were impressed with strict veterinary controls the country has taken to prevent foot-and-mouth disease from neighbouring countries.

Shipments would begin as soon as Russian veterinary experts completed their work in Colombia.

Beef import from Colombia to Russia is expected to reach US$100 million a year.

Russia is seeking new sources of beef supplies after imports from its two main suppliers were curtailed. Brazil's beef exports have been restricted due to foot and mouth disease while Argentina self-imposed a ban to curb inflation.