US red meat exports to Colombia booming
U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) Technical Services Manager Cheyenne McEndaffer explained that, despite these increases, red meat exports still face significant technical barriers. Furthermore, McEndaffer says such technical barriers include transportation and infrastructure issues in Colombia, especially for chilled pork and beef.
"Colombia is an interesting market. We have full access for all beef and pork products, which is great, but we have been running into some technical issues that have impeded our exports, and continue to affect both exporters wanting to send to the market, as well as importers willing to buy," McEndaffer says.
McEndaffer furthermore adds that other technical issues include the tough port inspections in Colombia. The local veterinary officials are very tough on any dust or dirt in the containers, on top of the boxes, which unfortunately happens during transit, as well as maybe blood or purge coming out of the boxes before they are frozen in the U.S. to load into the container.
Another important issue that McEndaffer gave as an example for obstacles in the importations of the US red meat is product labelling.
"Label discrepancies – it is one of the countries that require Spanish and English labels, so we need to make sure that’s accurate. And if there are any errors, that gives the inspectors a chance to retain or even reject that product. So, the goal is to work with the exporters and the importers to make sure we, a.) know what the requirements are and comply, and b.) make sure Colombian officials are enforcing them, as well," McEndaffer explained.
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