Philip M. SengU.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO | December 6, 200...

Philip M. Seng
U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO
December 6, 2006

“Our office in Seoul reports that the South Korean Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) today rejected another shipment of U.S. beef. In its announcement, the ministry reported finding bone chips less than 1 mm in thickness in three boxes of chuck short rib. Safety has never been questioned. This is the third rejection and is a clear indication that MAF is not interested in allowing the importation of U.S. beef.

“Ironically, while the government of South Korea is intent on negotiating a Free Trade Agreement with the United States, these MAF actions clearly demonstrate that it is not committed to free trade.

“It was almost a year ago that the governments of South Korea and the United States announced an agreement had been signed that would lead to a resumption of beef trade. Unfortunately, the governments agreed to an arrangement that was not trade progressive. We know from our interaction with members of the Korean meat trade that consumers are eagerly awaiting the return of U.S. beef to the market. We urge the South Korean and U.S. governments to resume talks as quickly as possible to effect an agreement that will be trade progressive and consistent with international standards.

“U.S. beef is safe and the U.S. industry has worked diligently for nearly two decades to guard consumers from the risk of product contamination resulting from BSE, even though that risk is so small that it is nearly zero. USMEF programs in South Korea are continuing to provide science-based information to the trade and consumers who have questions.

“For nearly 18 years, South Korean consumers have appreciated the great taste, consistent high quality and great value they have found in U.S. beef. We look forward to the day when they will be able to have this experience again.”