November 30, 2006

US pushes for uniform beef rules

The USDA has been trying to get Asian nations to accept standardised import rules for beef with the agency's deputy under secretary, marketing and regulatory programmes, Chuck Lambert spearheading the campaign.

Lambert visited several Asian countries last week in this regard and has plans of making another trip in a month or two. They were trying to obtain a risk classification from the International Animal Heath Organization (OIE) with regards to BSE.

Such a move would build confidence in the minds of Asian countries with respect to US beef, thus easing trade restrictions.

OIE is expected to announce its recommendations and proposed classification in March. Members would then be given time to submit comments before they cast their vote at OIE's meeting in May.