Congressman Kevin McCarthy

Representing the 23rd District of CALIFORNIA
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Korean Market Once Again Open for American Beef

Apr 18, 2008
Press Release

Washington D.C. – Today, the United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced a negotiated agreement to fully reopen the South Korean market to U.S. beef. The Korean market closed in December 2003 to beef and beef products following a BSE scare. Congressman McCarthy issued the following statement applauding the agreement:

 “I applaud the resumption of U.S. beef exports to South Korea since it never should have been stopped in the first place.  California ranchers continue to produce safe and high-quality beef, exporting almost $100 million worth of beef products in 2005.  The decision today gives our locally-produced beef products access to an important trade market, and makes us more competitive in the global marketplace.  At this time of economic uncertainty, I hope this motivates more in Washington to get back to the important work of opening overseas markets to American products, which will help create jobs and grow our local and national economy.”

Before the Korean market was closed in 2003, U.S. beef and beef products exported to Korea totaled $815 million. American ranchers and beef producers will now once again have access to the Korean beef market. For more information, click here to go to the USTR fact sheet on their website.