China has agreed to accept bovine semen and embryos from Canada for the first time since BSE was discovered in the Canadian herd in May 2003.
Canadian officials saw it as a precedent in Canada’s efforts to reopen world markets, step by step.
During a trip to Asia, federal agriculture minister Andy Mitchell signed agreements with Chinese officials aimed at reopening that trade within 30 days.
Chinese officials will travel to Canada within days to register the semen and embryo genetic facilities that will be eligible to export.
Read Also
Canadian Food Inspection Agency extends chronic wasting disease control program consultation deadline
Date extended for consultation period of changes to CWD program
Before May 20, Canada exported $10 million worth of semen and $7 million worth of embryos as the Chinese struggle to strengthen their dairy and livestock herds.
Although he was not available to comment Oct. 15, Canadian Livestock Genetics Association executive director Rick McRonald said in a statement it represented a breakthrough in resuming international trade.
“This breakthrough provides the opportunity for the Chinese dairy and livestock industry to regain access to Canada’s world-leading genetics and is a positive development for an industry that has faced a very difficult 17 months,” he said.
The Asian trade trip included representatives of the beef industry and exporters, as well as Alberta Conservative MP Ted Menzies. Menzies said he met with Japanese politicians to press Canada’s case to open the border.
