In this week’s audio report from the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), Joel Haggard, USMEF senior vice president for the Asia Pacific, explains how U.S. beef has gained expanded access to Thailand following a lift of BSE-related import restrictions.

In the report, Haggard says that boneless and bone-in beef cuts from cattle of all ages are eligible for export to Thailand. Previously, only boneless cuts from cattle under 30 months of age were eligible.

Thailand will remain a small destination for U.S. beef, but Haggard notes that the new import regulations will generate more interest in the market from U.S. exporters, adding that some Thai importers have already inquired about popular bone-in cuts such as short ribs and prime rib.

Efforts to gain full beef access in Thailand are not yet complete, as beef variety meat and offal items remain ineligible. USMEF is seeking clarification on the eligibility of processed beef products.

Listen to the full report here:
USMEF Report, Expanded Access to Thailand