The U.S. and Hong Kong – the fourth largest market for U.S. beef and beef product exports – have agreed on new terms and conditions that will help expand U.S. beef and beef product exports. Effective yesterday (Tuesday) – Hong Kong will permit the import of the full range of U.S. beef and beef products as the World Organization for Animal Health granted the U.S. negligible risk status for BSE last year. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association appreciates the Administration’s efforts on this issue – and NCBA President Bob McCan says the strong system of interlocking safeguards and protocols the U.S. beef industry put in place more than 10-years ago have assured consumers of the safety of U.S. beef.
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack says this is great news for American ranchers and beef companies – and USDA looks forward to expanded opportunities in Hong Kong for the U.S. beef industry since all trade restrictions are now lifted.