EU beef exports to Korea resume after almost 20 years

After almost 20 years and thanks to consistent efforts undertaken jointly by the European Commission and EU Member States, the Republic of Korea lifted its import restrictions on beef and beef products from the European Union. Producers from Denmark and the Netherlands will be the first ones to be able to resume exports. Commissioner for trade, Cecilia Malmström, said: “Trade isn’t just about doing trade deals. After many years of hard work this announcement means that Dutch and Danish farmers gain a new market to sell their beef. Once again the EU is delivering for our agricultural sector.” Commissioner Vytenis Andriukaitis, in charge of health and food safety, welcomed this announcement, stressing that “this is another sign that trade partners acknowledge that the battle against BSE has been won and that the quality of EU’s beef and beef products is recognised around the world. Additional access to this important market is excellent news for EU producers!” Commissioner for agriculture, Phil Hogan, said: “This is a very welcome development and an important statement of confidence by the South Korean authorities in the safety and quality of European beef. Following confirmation of access for Danish and Dutch operators, I hope that it won’t be long before operators in other EU Member States are approved for export to this important and valuable market. Securing access for other EU Member States will continue to be a priority for the European Commission in bilateral trade relations with Korea.” The removal of the trade restrictions imposed in 2001 in reaction to the bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) outbreak is a sign of well-deserved trust in the EU’s comprehensive, multi-layered and very efficient food safety and animal health control system.