The U.S. Cattlemen’s Association is requesting an update on the status of trade negotiations with China in relation to the exportation of U.S. beef from Secretary Tom Vilsack. USCA trade committee co-chair Chasmine Nelson issued the following statement:

“In September, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang announced in a speech delivered while in New York that Chinese consumers should no longer be denied the choice to dine on U.S. beef,” the statement said.

“The news was welcomed by U.S. cattle producers eager to take advantage of a growing demand for beef in the country. The letter requests an update on the status of those negotiations and encourages the Administration to reach out to stakeholders for input and feedback. We look forward to working with the Department to define the details of this proposed expanded market access and are optimistic that we can find a solution that benefits both U.S. producers and Chinese consumers.”

China currently consumes around 13 percent of the world’s beef and is expected to increase their imports of red meat by nearly 24 percent in 2016, as compared to previous years.

As producers of the highest quality beef in the world, the USCA is eager to begin exporting to a country with growing demand for meat products.

“We look forward to working closely with the Administration on this matter; and thank you for your continued dedication to America’s farmers and ranchers,” Nelson said.

In other news, the USCA applauds the Obama Administration's examination of the European Union’s unfair trade practices against the U.S. cattle industry.

“USCA applauds the Obama Administration for investigating the discriminatory trade practices employed against American cattle producers,” USCA President Kenny Graner said, “We welcome the opportunity to comment on the EU’s 20-year ban on U.S. beef products and look forward to the proposed public hearing.”

“The EU’s ban on U.S. beef is scientifically unfounded and results in lost market access to a population that is increasingly demanding high-quality beef products. As producers of the highest-quality beef in the world, USCA supports the Administration’s examination of the EU’s restrictive and distorted trade policies.”