May 1, 2006

USDA urges Russia not to cause poultry trade disruption

US Department of Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns Friday (Apr 28) urged Russia to fix its poultry import system before the country's actions affect US exports.

Russia announced Thursday that licenses for all poultry imports would be cancelled.

Russia, as of now, would not stop US shipments that leave US ports before May 8, Johanns stressed, adding Russia is already working to implement a new licensing system for Russian importers.

"We understand that the Russian action is related to a growing frustration with fraudulent importing procedures and relates to their desire to better control the importing process," Johanns said. "We understand that, but we are urging that this be done in a manner that does not disrupt all trade, nor penalize US exporters who have followed the established procedures."

Russia accounts for about 30 percent of US poultry sold abroad.