Korea lifts import restrictions on beef products from EU Member States

The Republic of Korea is set to allow imports of beef products from certain European Union Member States after lifting restrictions.

A ban was imposed by the Korean Government with regard to beef imports in 2001, after an outbreak of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE).

The latest move comes following joint efforts by the European Commission and EU Member States.

European 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 the other EU Member States are approved for export to this important and valuable market.

“Securing access for the other EU Member States will continue to be a priority for the European Commission in bilateral trade relations with Korea.”

Beef producers from Denmark and the Netherlands will resume exports to South Korea after the removal of trade restrictions.

European Commissioner for health and food safety Vytenis Andriukaitis said: “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!”

EC added that it will continue to work with the Korean authorities to secure market access for other states in the EU that are still awaiting export approval for beef and beef products.