Barnaby Joyce
August 26, 2016
The Japanese ban on live cattle imports from Australia – sparked by the detection of Bovine Johnes Disease in exported dairy heifers in June – has been lifted.
Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce announced on Friday that the $14 million-a-year trade could recommence.
He said Japan and Australia had worked together to reach an agreement on improved export certification processes for all cattle consignments.
“Our trade in beef and dairy cows to Japan can begin immediately,” Mr Joyce said.
“To re-open markets in such a short time is a testament to the close trade relationship Australia enjoys with Japan.
“The favourable health status of Australian livestock, our stringent biosecurity system and global expertise in live cattle exports mean that we have been able to quickly and effectively address all concerns raised by Japan.
“That’s good news for our exporters, who can once again begin preparing consignments for this significant market.
“It’s good news for the nation, reaffirming the strength of our live export industry which contributed $1.9 billion to the Australian economy in 2015–16 and employed more than 10,000 people within and beyond the industry.”
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