May 23, 2005

Japan government keen to allow US beef imports

The Japanese government will seek approval from the country's Food Safety Commission for the commencement of US beef trade in cattle aged 20 months or younger.

Any approval will be based on production records or the meat grading system, officials revealed.

Before a case of made cow disease in the US forced a ban on US beef in December 2003, Japan was the largest overseas market for US beef, importing US$1.4 billion worth in 2003.

Last October, Japan had reached an agreement with the US on opening its markets to US beef but stalled the process saying that no imports can take place in the absence of tests proving the safety of US beef.

After receiving the government's request, the independent Food Safety Commission will review US safety measures against mad cow disease to see if they meet Japanese standards, a process that could take several months.

Japanese consumers have voiced concerns about eating U.S. beef, accusing the government of yielding to pressure from the United States and lowering domestic standards on meat safety to suit US exporters.