US Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns revealed yesterday (7 March) that Malaysia has agreed to resume importing US beef.
Under the agreement, the US will be permitted to export boneless beef from animals under 30-months-old.
Following the detection of BSE in US cattle in 2003, Malaysia prohibited the import of all US beef and beef products. Prior to the ban, the trade was valued at US$1.9m.
“I’m very pleased with the reopening of the Malaysian market to US beef and beef products,” said Johanns. “Today’s announcement is another positive step in our efforts to resume normal US 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.”