Saskatchewan cattle producers are hoping for expanded access to foreign markets as Canada seeks improved status for the bse disease.
The last of the BSE export restrictions facing Canada in the global marketplace may be removed in May, which would be a full 18 years after the initial case in Alberta.
It was announced last week that the Organization for Animal Health will recommend Canada’s status be changed from a controlled risk country for BSE to one of negligible risk.
Saskatchewan Stock Growers manager Chad MacPherson sees benefits for producers.
He says Canada will be on a level playing field with other major beef exporters and there is potential for expanded markets.
The federal government is hoping for a final decision from the World Organization for Animal Health in May of this year.
—-