July 26, 2005

Major beef producers unite for trade reform
 

Five major beef-producing countries are uniting to lobby for agricultural trade reforms and a unified animal ID system.

A single group will be formed, with members consisting of Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Canada, and the US. Representatives met recently in Calgary, Canada to discuss major concerns such as BSE, traceability and animal rights.

Cattle Council of Australia's David Inall said though all five countries would not have the same ID system, they would at least agree on a minimum level of traceability.

The group is now working together to consolidate the various schemes that each country has. This, Inall said, would bring about a great outcome for producers.

With this co-operation, beef producers are likely to have more and easier access to new markets.