NCBA Statement: U.S. and Japan Establish Process to Reopen Borders to U.S. Beef

 “It’s encouraging that the United States and Japanese governments have established a process to identify the scientific parameters whereby the Japanese border can be reopened to U.S. beef.  The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association has long believed that by working together, our countries could create the science-based framework by which high quality, safe, wholesome U.S. beef could be exported to that country.

“The breakthrough in discussions we are seeing is due to the government-to-government dialog that recognizes the importance of fair trade between the two countries.  We’re confident the working group that will meet over the next few months to agree on scientific issues for the resumption of trade will be able to come to consensus on the concerns that both the United States and Japan have.

“In the border reopening process, the U.S. and Japan working group will address the following:

1)      Definition of BSE and the method of testing

2)      Definition of Specified Risk Materials (SRMs) and the method of removal

3)      Appropriate surveillance

4)      Appropriate feed ban implementation

5)      Risk categorization/status of countries

6)      Cattle month-age identification

7)      Other

“The concept of 100 percent testing will be addressed throughout this process and is no longer a precondition for resuming trade.

“Throughout this process, it’s important both countries educate consumers about the safeguards in place that assure wholesome beef.  There has never been a case of vCJD that has been linked to U.S. beef, which is recognized worldwide as a wholesome, safe food.  Our producers remain committed to providing high quality beef around the globe.”