Beef exports to Japan are back

Short- to medium-term sales of Irish beef products in Japan are predicted to be worth €12-15m per year, following the reopening of the market for the first time since 2001.

Ireland has joined a select group of countries allowed to export beef there, said Taoiseach Enda Kenny, who announced the export breakthrough at a press conference with Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe.

IFA president John Bryan said market access to Japan has followed years of negotiations and major work by the Department of Agriculture and Bord Bia, and is very important for enhancing the reputation of Irish beef.