China and U.S. to Resume Beef Talks
Early 2011 is goal for regaining access to Chinese market.
Compiled by staff
Published: Dec 17, 2010
As the 21st session of the U.S.-China Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade ended Thursday, it was announced that China has agreed to resume talks on beef market access. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack expressed his pleasure with the progress made towards resolving differences on beef access. According to the Secretary, this is a vital outcome for farmers and ranchers. Technical talks will resume as soon as possible with the goal of re-opening China's market in early 2011.
According to the U.S. Meat Export Federation when the market closed in 2003, China was just beginning to show its potential as a major destination for U.S. beef. China's economy has grown remarkably since that time and so have the opportunities for high-quality beef products. If the United States regains access to the Chinese market early next year, USMEF estimates that 2011 beef exports will be in the range of $200 million. This would rank China among the top ten global markets for U.S. beef, with tremendous potential for future growth.
The United States and China also signed seven new agreements covering agricultural collaboration, soybean exports, statistics, and promotion of investment in the United States. In addition, the U.S. Trade Development Agency signed the Operating Framework Agreement that marks 10 years of its China program as well as grants for State Grid Smart Grid Standards Development and an Integrated Real Time Water Monitoring System Feasibility Study and Pilot Project.
The JCCT was co-chaired by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke and U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk along with Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan. Secretary Vilsack also participated in the discussions. U.S. businesses are expected to now become more competitive in China.
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