July 27, 2012

Taiwan ceases ban on US beef imports containing ractopamine

Taiwan has effectively ceased a ban on US beef imports containing the additive ractopamine on July 25.

Taiwan will allow up to ten parts per billion of ractopamine which is the recommended safety level by the United Nations but falls short of the 30 parts per billion permitted in the US. The legislature agreed to amend a law that has barred imports of any beef containing the drug that is used to promote leanness in meat.

The American Institute in Taiwan, the de facto US embassy on the island, welcomed the news on July 26, saying, "We look forward to the quick implementation of the maximum residue level for ractopamine and the resumption of expanded access for US beef in the Taiwan market."

The issue over whether to permit US imports of beef containing ractopamine is contentious in Taiwan and has previously triggered street protests and parliamentary sit-ins. The decision to lift the ban is clearly aimed at facilitating trade talks with the US. The US suspended Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) discussions in 2007 because of the dispute. The Ma administration, however, has made the removal of any obstacles to the TIFA a priority for his government.