JAPAN LIFTS BAN ON U.S. POULTRY IMPORTS

JAPAN LIFTS BAN ON U.S. POULTRY IMPORTS    The Japanese government has lifted its ban on U.S. poultry and poultry products from all states except for Pennsylvania and Maine.
   The controversial ban was imposed on Jan. 12 after the confirmation of low-pathogenic avian influenza virus found in poultry in Pennsylvania and Maine. The United States said the ban was “unwarranted” since it wasn't in compliance with the Office of International Epizootics (OIE) standards.
   “This administration has worked aggressively to resolve the issue,” said Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman. “Japan’s decision to comply with OIE standards and lift these import restrictions is a relief to U.S. producers.”
   The Japanese market is worth over $170 million annually to U.S. poultry producers.
   Veneman said USDA will continue to work closely with Japan’s agriculture ministry to ensure shipments are resumed and remove the remaining restrictions on Pennsylvania and Maine poultry as quickly as possible. According to OIE standards, countries are not required to report low-pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks.