Morocco allowing U.S. poultry imports

Agreement hailed as “important step in ensuring that American farmers and ranchers can continue to expand their exports.”    The Moroccan government will begin to allow imports of U.S. poultry meat for the first time.
   “This new access to the Moroccan market is an important step in ensuring that American farmers and ranchers can continue to expand their exports,” said U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer. “I welcome Morocco’s agreement to allow imports of U.S. poultry meat and products and the economic opportunities that will be afforded to U.S. producers.”
   The United States is the world’s second-largest poultry exporter, with global sales of poultry meat and products totaling $4.3 billion last year. 
   “Opening new markets for American poultry and other agricultural products is a top priority,” said Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue. “This is also a good harbinger of the kind of relationship that can be developed. We hope there are other things we can cooperate on as USDA works to expand markets around the globe.”
   Initial U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates indicate that Morocco would be a $10 million market, with additional growth over time. Historically, Morocco prohibited imports of U.S. poultry. The USDA, along with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, worked with the Moroccan government to ensure the safety of U.S. poultry.