WASHINGTON – The meat and poultry industry welcomed news that China will allow imports of beef produced in the United States no later July 16. By the same date, the US is to publish a rule allowing imports of cooked poultry from China.
Following technical consultations between China and the US, China is to allow imports of US beef on conditions consistent with international food safety and animal health standards and consistent with the 1999 Agricultural Cooperation Agreement.
Craig Uden, president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) said “…It’s impossible to overstate how beneficial…” this latest development in beef trade with China will be for US cattle producers.
“After being locked out of the world’s largest market for 13 years, we strongly welcome the announcement that an agreement has been made to restore US beef exports to China,” Uden said in a statement. “We look forward to providing nearly 1.4 billion new customers in China with the same safe and delicious US beef that we feed our families. I look forward to the day when we can serve President Trump and President Xi a dry-aged American-made New York strip in Beijing.”
North American Meat Institute (NAMI) Chairman and Bob Evans Farms President and CEO Mike Townsley said the announcement is a significant milestone for the industry. “High quality beef is in high demand in China, so the deal has great potential for both our businesses and the US economy as a whole,” Townsley said in a statement.
“The administration has shown great leadership in working with the Chinese government and industry to help finalize market access for US beef,” NAMI President and CEO Barry Carpenter said. “The beef deal is a significant, concrete accomplishment resulting from the 100-day plan established by President Trump and President Xi at their summit. We are thankful for the hard work on the issue by both leaders.”
