Hensarling Welcomes Japanese Removal of American Beef Ban

Hensarling Welcomes Japanese Removal of American Beef Ban

Washington, Jul 27 -
Congressman Jeb Hensarling (R-TX) today praised Japan's announcement that it has lifted its ban on American beef imports. Under terms announced by Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns, Japan will now accept American beef originating from cattle under 20 months of age.

"This is welcome news for East Texas beef producers, and I am thankful that that Japanese government has made the proper decision to allow American beef into the Japanese marketplace," said Hensarling.

In 2003, Japan banned American beef exports worth $1.4 billion after the discovery of a U.S. cow with Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE). Though trade resumed on December 11, 2005, in January Japan temporarily halted importation of American beef after discovering a vertebral column in a shipment from the United States, which violated provisions of a trade agreement between the two nations.

"Japanese shoppers will now be able to purchase East Texas beef at their local grocery stores. Restaurants in Japan can serve East Texas beef. This is a great day for East Texas beef producers."

Hensarling sent a letter in January to Secretary Johanns asking him to address the situation, and later sent a letter to President Bush asking him to discuss the issue with Japanese Prime Minister Koizumi during their meeting in the United States last month.

"Japanese inspections confirm that America has the safest food supply and the strictest food safety requirements in the world," said Hensarling. "Free trade in global markets benefits farmers all throughout Texas and America by providing free and unfettered access to expanded markets around the world."

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