Malaysia Opens Market To U.S. Beef Products

WASHINGTON, March 7, 2006 - Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns today announced that Malaysia will resume imports of U.S. beef and beef products.

“I’m very pleased with the reopening of the Malaysian market to U.S. beef and beef products,” said Johanns. “Today’s announcement is another positive step in our efforts to resume normal U.S. beef trade around the world that follows science-based international guidelines in food and animal safety. We look forward to building on this opening to expand product coverage and exporter eligibility.”

Under the agreement announced today, the United States will be able to export boneless beef from animals under 30 months of age. U.S. and Malaysian authorities are working to finalize the remaining documentation details so that shipments can begin in the near future.

In 2003, the United States exported more than $1.9 million worth of beef and beef products to Malaysia. Following the detection of BSE in December 2003, Malaysia imposed a ban on all U.S. beef and beef products.

Contact Information

Ed Loyd

U.S. Department of Agriculture

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