July 21, 2009
Russia lifts remaining import ban on Canadian pork
Russia has lifted its remaining restrictions on imports of pork, pork products and live swine from the Canadian province of Ontario, according to Canadian officials.
The announcement came late Friday from the International Trade Ministry and the Ministry of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, said the decision by Russia to lift all remaining restrictions on Canadian pork "will make a difference to the bottom line of our hog producers."
The decision affects Ontario pork products produced before May 15 and after July 18, and means Russia no longer has any AH1N1-related restrictions on Canadian products.
Several countries have lifted import bans on Canadian products after representations by Canadian officials. Earlier this month, Russia lifted restrictions on pork from Quebec, as well as on non-pork meat products such as beef and poultry from Ontario.
Some countries still impose restrictions on Canadian pork and swine, without scientifically justifiable evidence to support their actions, Canadian officials said.
In 2008, total Canadian pork exports were valued at C$2.7 billion (US$2.4 billion), including nearly C$527 million worth of live swine exports.
US$1 = C$1.10 (July 21)
