NCFA very pleased by expanded market access to Japan for beef from UTM cattle
CALGARY, Jan. 28, 2013 /CNW/ - The National Cattle Feeders' Association (NCFA) is very pleased Japan has expanded market access to Canadian beef from cattle under 30 months of age (UTM). This improves upon an existing agreement allowing trade in beef only from animals younger than 21 months.
The staff, board, and membership of NFCA commend federal Minister of Agriculture Gerry Ritz on this achievement, which represents years of steadfast negotiation by the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of International Trade, and the Government of Canada.
"It is extremely gratifying when a trading partner such as Japan sends such a strong market signal acknowledging what cattle feeders across the country have always known - Canadian beef is a world-class product," said NCFA chairman Bill Jameson. "Expanded access to this market strengthens Canada's cattle industry, and fortifies our national economy."
The revised beef import regulations come into effect on February 1, and the expanded access may double the value of beef exports to Japan to as much as $150 million annually.
"We have worked closely with the Ministry of Agriculture over the years to this end, and we congratulate Minister Ritz and Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade, for their dedication to the continued success of Canada's beef industry," said Jameson. "We also thank the governments of Alberta and Saskatchewan for championing the cause and for their ongoing support on beef trade issues."
The NCFA fully supports the Government of Canada's pursuit of an economic partnership agreement with Japan to further open the Japanese market. Free trade in beef products, including the elimination of the 38.5 per cent duty, would mutually strengthen relationships between Canadian suppliers and Japanese consumers.
SOURCE: National Cattle Feeders' Association
Bill Jameson, Chairman
National Cattle Feeders' Association
306.692.4911 or 306.631.0005
[email protected]
Or
Bryan Walton, General Manager
National Cattle Feeders' Association
403.769.1519 or 403.837.2232
[email protected]
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