WASHINGTON, March 21, 2005 -U.S. Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns announced today that Egypt is immediately resuming imports of U.S. beef and beef products from animals less than 30 months of age.

"We are extremely pleased at the reopening of another important market for U.S. beef exports and anticipate that exports will quickly return to pre-BSE trade levels," said Johanns. "USDA will continue to focus on our efforts to open additional markets by promoting the use of science-based regulations in the global trade in beef."

The agreement requires age and origin requirements under a USDA Agricultural Marketing Service Beef Export Verification (BEV) program. In 2003, Egyptian purchases of U.S. beef and beef products amounted to $30 million, with liver accounting for nearly 65 percent or $19 million of total sales.

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FAS PR 0042-05