The federal government’s point man in the effort to open Asian markets to Canadian beef imports says progress is being made, even if it is slower than Canada wants.
Norm Willis, former chief national veterinarian hired by Agriculture Canada to present Canada’s scientific case to Asian governments and buyers, figures the final result will be something less than the 100 percent testing for BSE that Japan now demands.
“A debate is on in Japan, it is moving and I don’t think it will end up at 100 percent testing requirement,” Willis said in an Oct. 1 interview.
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“I know it is taking far too long but politically, they can’t move any faster than they have.”
He was hired on a one year contract in February to visit Asian capitals and explain the case for the safety of Canadian beef as well as the actions taken by government and industry to secure the safety of Canada’s beef supply.
He has made four extensive forays to Asia and more are planned.
Willis said the major holdup is meat safety nervousness by Asian consumers. They demand 100 percent testing of meat from domestic plants “and they are not going to accept less in their imports.”
The Japanese government is leading a national debate to develop testing standards that are less stringent and yet are accepted by consumers.
He said the problem is not a lack of understanding by the Japanese government or industry leaders about BSE or the Canadian government’s actions.
“It is a question of establishing their domestic policy,” said Willis. “This takes time.”
He said Japan likely will not announce a specific opening for Canada or the United States but rather an opening for North American cattle, since it views Canada and the U.S. as an integrated market.
However, Willis also said that if a Canadian plant started to operate at 100 percent testing for all production, it is possible that product would be allowed into Japan.
“If their conditions (100 percent testing) were met, they would consider it.”
He said Canada’s strategy is to continue as a visible presence in Asian capitals, answer questions and reassure Asian consumers about Canada’s practices.
If access can be gained to one small portion of the market, it could act as a foot in the door to build confidence more broadly.
Willis said Canada’s efforts appear to be paying off: “I am finding them more trusting when I meet them.”
In the long run, patience will pay off, he predicted, although he would not venture a guess on how long the long term will be.
He would not speculate if he will be on the job past his February 2005 contract expiry.
“I feel somewhat optimistic and encouraged,” said Willis. “I think we will get past this, that we’ll find a path.”
