Are Australians at risk from lifting the restrictions on US beef imports?

Australia has lifted restrictions on the import of beef from the United States in a decision critics say was made to appease U-S President Donald Trump. While the government says this was not the case, the removal of restrictions is raising concerns over health, biosecurity, and the impact on Australian cattle farmers.

Cows are seen in a paddock outside of Currie on King Island, Tasmania, Thursday, May 18, 2023. (AAP Image/James Ross) NO ARCHIVING Credit: JAMES ROSS/AAPIMAGE

Key Points

• Australia is the second largest exporter of beef products in the world.
• A key concern since 2019 is that Mexico’s tracking system might let in beef from disease-affected areas. Western Beef Association Chair Mark Thomas says the effectiveness of the U.S. tracking system remains unclear.
• For consumers, choosing between local and imported beef will mostly come down to personal preference rather than health concerns.

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Are Australians at risk from lifting the restrictions on US beef imports?

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