The Montana Stockgrowers Association’s Executive Vice President, Errol Rice, has spent his whole life raising cattle, and the past 13 years trying to reopen beef trade between the United States and China.
On Thursday, Rice received word from U.S. Senator Steve Daines’ office that his longtime goal is becoming a reality, and China will be lifting their ban on U.S. beef.
“The market potential is absolutely an incredible opportunity for the Montana ranching community to showcase some of our high quality beef to the Chinese consumer,” Rice said.
A statement from U.S. Senator Steve Daines office Thursday following the announcement expressed the significance of China ending the ban on U.S. beef.
“This is game-changing news for Montana ranchers. The Beef market is critical to Montana jobs and the economy. With over 95% of the world’s consumers living outside the US, opening markets abroad for Montana agricultural exports is essential. Having the ability to access a new market, especially one as large and significant as China, will Montana in business where there are two times as many cattle as people.” – U.S. Senator Steve Daines
Rice said he had the opportunity to work with Daines and feels that the Senator’s recent trip to China in May had a role in influencing China to reopen to U.S. beef trade.
Now, Rice looks forward to China, home to 1/5 of the world’s population, once again being able to enjoy Montana beef.
“We look forward to rolling up our sleeves and getting to work on this tremendous market opportunity,” Rice said.