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CANADA-MEXICO-U.S. AGREE TO A HARMONIZED BSE IMPORT STANDARD

OTTAWA, March 29, 2005 - Officials from Canada, Mexico and the United States (U.S.) met recently in Mexico City and agreed to a harmonized North American import standard for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). This standard fully reflects current guidelines and proposed amendments to the animal health code of the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).

The harmonized North American standard is based on science and provides continued protection of human and animal health and food safety, while also establishing a framework for safe international trade opportunities for cattle and beef products from Canada, Mexico and the U.S.

Implementation of this standard is subject to the completion of the respective regulatory processes in each of the three countries. The necessary regulatory changes in Canada will be implemented as required.

Mexico has indicated that they will immediately begin the process to amend their import permits to allow for the importation of a broader range of commodities from Canada. These measures will be consistent with those that were proposed to be implemented in the U.S. on March 7, 2005. It is expected that Mexico will be in a position to receive this range of products in approximately three to four months. The U.S. has agreed to consider such action as consistent with its requirements for continued access by Mexico to its market.

This agreement provides a clear demonstration of the commitment in North America to evolving our regulatory approaches based on science and internationally established standards. Not only does it provide concrete testimony to our belief in the safety of North American beef products, but it also reflects the leadership necessary to encourage other countries to follow similar approaches.

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For information:

Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Media relations: (613) 228-6682

Elizabeth Whiting
Minister’s Office: (613) 759-1761

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