Paraguay's Beef Re-entry to the U.S. Market Sparks Controversy

Paraguay, a small South American country, has been granted permission by the USDA to export fresh beef to the United States, accounting for only 0.05% of U.S. beef imports. However, despite the small volume, the decision has stirred up controversy.

Paraguay’s tiny but controversial re-entry to selling beef in the U.S. market

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), the largest trade group in the beef industry, strongly opposes the USDA's decision, citing Paraguay's history of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and concerns about the outdated information used to justify Paraguay’s access to the U.S. market.

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects various animals with divided hooves. While it does not affect horses, dogs, or cats, it poses a significant risk to livestock. The NCBA voiced concerns about the potential threat to the safety of the U.S. cattle herd, emphasizing that the USDA's decision is based on a flawed risk assessment that uses old data from site visits conducted over nine years ago. They also raised questions about Paraguay's ability to fund and administer FMD safeguards, as well as the security of their borders with neighboring countries.

The NCBA urged the USDA to continue blocking fresh beef imports from Paraguay until a comprehensive review can be conducted to ensure the safety and equivalence of Paraguay's beef production for U.S. consumers and livestock.

Paraguay's expected fresh beef imports to the U.S. are estimated to be between 3,250 and 6,500 tons. Despite the limited quantity, the controversy surrounding the decision highlights the importance of ensuring the safety and integrity of food imports into the United States.