The Government of Canada has secured full market access for Canadian beef and cattle exports to Jordan. International Trade Minister Stockwell Day and Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz today announced Jordan’s decision to lift the ban imposed in 2003 because of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE).
“We are proud to work with Jordan as they look for the safe, healthy foods Canadian producers are exporting,” said Minister Ritz. “Canadian producers want to make their living from the marketplace and we are working hard to open new markets such as Jordan to make sure there are more buyers for Canadian beef and cattle.”
“Reducing barriers to trade is more important than ever in these times of economic uncertainty and I welcome Jordan’s decision to open its doors to Canadian beef and cattle,” said Minister Day. “This represents an important milestone for our beef and cattle industry and it is also a very important step towards expanding overall trade relations between our two countries.”
The Canadian Beef Export Federation estimates new market access in Jordan could increase the value of Canadian beef exports up to $1 million.
Canada and Jordan concluded negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement along with agreements on labour cooperation and the environment in August 2008. The agreements are currently undergoing a detailed legal review prior to being formally signed by both countries.
In May 2007, the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) officially categorized Canada as a “Controlled Risk” country for BSE, recognizing the effectiveness of Canada’s surveillance, mitigation, and eradication measures. The OIE reconfirmed Canada’s “Controlled Risk” categorization in May 2008. This categorization allows for the safe trade in all beef and cattle under conditions which Canada can meet.
