November 30, 2005

South Korea delays decision on lifting US beef ban
 

South Korea has delayed its decision on lifting the ban on US beef, after a farmers' group threatened to stage protests, if the government resumed the imports. The ban was due to mad cow disease in the US earlier.

A livestock quarantine panel responsible for determining the safety of imported beef would meet again in December to discuss the issue. The panel is comprised of representatives from the government, farmers and experts.

Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry officials said some panel members claimed lifting the ban on US beef was a result of US pressure. Others reportedly said experts needed more time to closely review the safety issue.

A group of Korean beef producers has also urged the government to consider lower popularity of American beef among Korean consumers.