May 11, 2005

Oman's ban on US beef lifted

The United States Department of Agriculture today announced that Oman has lifted its ban on all US beef and beef product imports.

"Oman's market reopening demonstrates a commitment to trade in beef and beef products based on internationally accepted scientific standards for human and animal health," said Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns. "Oman recognises that all US beef and beef products are safe. This is another step forward in our efforts to reopen global markets for US beef."

In 2003, the United States exported more than US$61,000 worth of beef and beef products to Oman. It is the second country in the Middle East region to reopen its market to US beef. Egypt announced the reopening of its market to US beef in March.

In 2003, the US exported approximately US$7.5 billion worth of beef, beef products, cattle and other ruminants and ruminant by-products. After the discovery of a BSE-infected cow in the US, US$4.8 billion worth of beef exports were banned. To date, the USDA estimates that it has recovered US$1.9 billion of the banned amounts.