Brownback applauds China’s decision to lift ban on U.S. beef

Gov. Sam Brownback says that China’s decision to lift a ban on U.S. beef presents an opportunity for Kansas ranchers.

China stopped importing U.S. beef in 2003 because of concerns over mad cow disease. However, after 13 years the Chinese government announced this week that it has lifted the ban, news which was celebrated by Brownback.

“This is tremendous news for Kansas farmers and ranchers and presents an opportunity to provide the growing middle class in China with high quality Kansas beef,” Brownback said in a news release. “While our governments must continue to work closely on specific trade details to ensure a final agreement is based on sound science, this is an important and very positive step forward for the U.S. beef industry.”

Brownback has repeatedly pointed to the state’s sluggish agriculture economy as a contributing factor to the state’s budget problems.

Opening up China, the world’s most populous country and second largest economy, to Kansas beef could help give both ranchers and state coffers a boost.

“I have and will continue to support opportunities to add more value to Kansas agriculture, and one important way to do that is through expanded market access around the globe,” Brownback said. “This is very positive news for the beef industry, and I look forward to learning more details as further progress is made in opening this key market.”

This story was originally published September 23, 2016 at 1:44 PM with the headline "Brownback applauds China’s decision to lift ban on U.S. beef."