UAE lifts ban on Irish beef imports

THE United Arab Emirates (UAE) has lifted its ban on Irish beef imports, which has been kept out of the market for more than eight years.

The move followed a review by the UAE authorities of beef controls in a number of EU countries, including Ireland.

Prior to the ban, Irish beef exports to the UAE exceeded 5,200 tonnes valued at nearly EUR8.3 million (US$12.4 million).

Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Minister Brendan Smith welcomed the reopening of the UAE market to Irish beef under 30 months.

Smith said there will be ongoing efforts to gain more access to global markets.