US Dairy Export Obstacles Highlighted in New Report
US - Hindrances to dairy imports continue in key markets, according to a new report from the Office of the US Trade Representative.
8 April 2016
2 minute read
The 2016 National Trade Estimate Report covered 58 countries, as well as the European Union, Taiwan, Hong Kong and the Arab League, and included issues of specific importance to the US dairy industry.
The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) said obstacles included geographical indications in the EU, supply-management systems in Canada, Japan’s high tariffs on cheese, India’s continued ban on dairy products that derive from animals without a certification of solely non-vegetarian feeds, and Russia’s effective elimination of milk and milk product imports from the United States and much of Europe.
Additionally, the report highlighted efforts by Malaysia and Thailand to restrict the use of brand names or symbols and apply “restrictions on educational, promotional and marketing activities for infant formula products and products for toddlers and young children.”
IDFA said it has been working to ensure industry maintains the right to use these important components of company and brand identity. The organisation also said it is fighting to ensure access by parents, caregivers and healthcare providers to important information about the nutritional benefits of dairy and milk-based foods for toddlers and young children.
USTR also highlighted many positive steps taken by the United States, including a nearly 400 per cent increase in fresh cheese exports to South Korea since implementation of the United States-Korea Free Trade Agreement. The pact enabled duty-free access for US skim and whole milk powder, whey for food use and cheese.
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