Thurs., Aug 15 02 - NCBA Asks For Waiver Of Japanese Trade Safeguard

Suggested Lead:

A huge dent in the Japanese beef market was created when BSE was discovered in that country Sept. 10, 2001. According to Chuck Lambert, chief economist for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, NCBA has asked two U.S. government offices to take the lead in making sure this extraordinary event doesn’t further slow U.S. exports of beef to that country.

Cut #1        :30            Outcue: "...38½ percent to 50 percent."

Lambert says after BSE was discovered in Japan, U.S. exports to the country declined as much as 50 to 60 percent.

Cut #2        :24            Outcue: "...discovery of BSE in Japan."

According to Lambert, it’s due partially to U.S. efforts that consumer confidence has been rebuilt and recovery is taking place in Japan.

Cut #3        :27            Outcue: "...of beef are increasing."

Lambert says with large increases in exports this year to Korea and China, recovery in the Japanese market could make 2002 a very good year for beef exports.

Cut #4        :24            Outcue: "...important market to us."

Waiver of the safeguard in Japan is a short-term solution. Lambert says that over the long term, NCBA will continue to support market development initiatives in Japan and press aggressively for WTO negotiators to reduce tariffs and completely eliminate the trade safeguard.