NCBA Statement: USDA’s Proposed Rule on BSE, Importation of Live Cattle

 “Free and fair trade can only be re-established with Canada when science and risk analysis tools are used to produce equitable policies that ensure the safety of cattle and beef.  Therefore, we insist the following concerns be addressed:

1.         Impacts on U.S. Cattle Prices:  U.S. cattle producers cannot afford harmful impacts on the domestic market from large movements of beef products or live cattle from Canada. Any reopening of the U.S. border must be done in a step-by-step process so as not to disrupt the domestic cattle market.

2.         Identification of Canadian Cattle:  Cattle allowed to enter feedlots must be young enough to ensure they will not exceed 30 months at slaughter.  Canadian heifers must be permanently identified and cannot be allowed to enter U.S. breeding herd through feedlots.

3.         Equivalency and Harmonization of Animal Health Standards: The U.S. government’s rulemaking process utilizes the best available science to shape its policies. Regulations developed by our trading partners, including Canada and Mexico, must be made in a corresponding and science-based manner. NCBA producer members will not support expanding trade with Canada until there is equivalency and compliance regarding animal health standards and regulations.

“It is important to note that this is just another step in the rule-making process.  USDA will now review the comments, and it will take more time before a final rule is published.  During this time, NCBA will work to ensure U.S. producers’ interests are protected.  We will meet with U.S. and Canadian government officials and Canadian cattle industry representatives to rectify the concerns we have identified.”