Calls for review as Australia opens the door to US beef

THE Australian Government has opened the door for imports of beef from the United States saying it is satisfied with traceability programs put in place by the US industry, while the Australian industry is calling for a review of the process.

While US beef has technically not been banned from Australia since 2019, country of origin labelling requirements ensuring that beef has not come from Canada or Mexico have prevented it from being able to export to Australia.

Today’s announcement will allow for expanded access to include beef sourced from cattle born in Canada or Mexico which is legally imported and slaughtered in the US. Beef Central understands US exporters will have to demonstrate full traceability back to the farm gate to enter Australia.

“The Albanese Labor Government will never compromise on biosecurity. The US Beef Imports Review has undergone a rigorous science and risk-based assessment over the past decade,” agriculture minister Julie Collins said.