US poultry producers and exporters congratulate the USTR Office and the USDA on the successful conclusion of consultations that achieved an acceptable amendment to the five-year bilateral meat and poultry agreement with the Russian government. The jointly-signed statement by the two governments today marks a critically important step in the continuation of poultry and meat trade with Russia.

Because the amendment provides more certainty on import quotas and tariff rates for poultry and meat during 2009, it is anticipated trade will continue at a favourable level. The US poultry industry supports the arrangements and anticipates poultry exports to Russia will continue at a level very comparable to the estimated 760,000 metric tons in 2008.

The USA Poultry & Egg Export Council and the National Chicken Council recognize that the consultations required a tremendous effort by both USTR and USDA. The successful outcome was dependent, in good measure, on the strong leadership of Ambassador Susan Schwab. The combined USTR/USDA team was led by Assistant US Trade Representative, Jim Murphy, and Deputy Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services, Ellen Terpstra.

USAPEEC, NCC and their members thank all officials involved for working cooperatively and closely with the poultry industry in achieving a successful outcome to the consultations. In addition, USAPEEC and NCC are most grateful for the full and active support provided by the various agencies within USDA, including the Foreign Agricultural Service, the Food Safety and Inspection Service, and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. The Department's coordination with USTR on the issues is a major reason that poultry trade with Russia will not be disrupted.

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