NCBA Statement on Resumption of U.S. Beef Trade with Taiwan

October 26, 2004

“America’s cattlemen are very pleased with Taiwan’s announcement to resume imports of U.S. beef and beef products.  This comes on the heels of the announcement by Japan to resume beef trade with the U.S., and we’re encouraged by this progress being made in the Asian market. 

“We applaud President Bush and the Administration’s trade team for making the re-opening of these vital markets a top priority.  We still have a lot of work to do in regaining the market share we had prior to December 23, 2003, but the progress we are seeing this week is a tremendous step toward that goal.

“Taiwan has been one of our fastest growing markets in recent years.  Trade of U.S. beef and beef products to Taiwan doubled between 1998 and 2000.  In 2003, the U.S. exported a record $76.3 million in beef and beef variety meats to Taiwan, with total beef product trade to Taiwan in 2003 amounting to $325 million. 

“The U.S. government and producer-members of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association are working proactively toward the goal of regaining complete access to the markets we had prior to the BSE case discovered last year.  We are communicating with our trading partners about the steps we have taken to ensure our beef and cattle remain safe from BSE. 

“Through the beef checkoff, promotional efforts will be initiated in those markets to assure consumers about our commitment to producing safe and top-quality beef products.  This is our livelihood. America’s cattle producers are committed to sharing with our international neighbors the same wholesome products we serve on our own tables here in the U.S.”