May 1, 2013

Following trade disruptions that curbed shipments in late 2011 and much of 2012, US beef exports to Taiwan "are rebounding in a big way".

The US Meat Export Federation (USMEF) said in a news release, through February, exports to Taiwan were 16% higher than a year ago in volume (5,708 tonnes) and up nearly 40% in value (US$42.6 million) - an even stronger pace they had been established before controversy over that country's beta agonist policy created a barrier.

USMEF notes this is in fact the fastest pace ever for beef export value to Taiwan. Only in one previous year (5,750 tonnes in January-February 2010) has beef export volume been higher after two months.

Beef exports to Taiwan fell 45% in volume (19,449 tonnes) and 36% in value (US$128.4 million) last year, largely due to a highly publicised enforcement of Taiwan's then-zero tolerance policy for beta agonist residues.

Taiwan's legislature later, in September 2012, approved a proposal that allowed establishment of a maximum residue level (MRL) for beta agonists in both domestic and imported beef.

In recent months, USMEF-Taiwan has reached out to consumers to restore the positive image of US beef at many public events and weekend festivals.

"It's really remarkable to see the progress we have made with consumers over the past six months," said Davis Wu, USMEF-Taiwan director. "As recently as last summer, US beef was the subject of street protests and a very high level of misinformation on social media. We are rapidly putting this controversy behind us, as reflected in this year's export results."