Media Release

Thursday, 18 August 2003 - MVT63/2003

Ban Lifted On $5 Million Offal Trade With Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s decision to lift its ban on imports of offal and spinal cords is great news for Australian exporters, Trade Minister Mark Vaile said today.

“The decision by Saudi Arabia to remove the bans imposed in 2001 follows extensive lobbying efforts by the Federal Government,” Mr Vaile said.

“Australian producers of offal have the highest quality and health standards in the world.  The Australian Government regulates all shipments of offal to ensure that these standards are met.

“Saudi Arabia’s willingness to lift the ban is appreciated by the Australian Government.” 

Mr Vaile wrote to the Saudi Minister for Commerce in 2001 assuring him of Australian standards for offal exports, and asking him to allow entry to the Kingdom of shipments of Australian offal which were on the water at the time the ban was announced.  Those shipments were subsequently allowed to enter.

“The Australian Government and industry looks forward to the resumption of the mutually beneficial trade in offal which offers increased export opportunities for Australian meat and livestock producers and represents increased choice for Saudi Arabian consumers,” Mr Vaile said.

Australian offal exports to Saudi Arabia averaged around $5 million per annum prior to the ban.

Contact:  Matthew Doman  02 6277 7420