U.S. Ag Secretary Ed Schafer says recent openings of U.S. beef markets into Costa Rica, Belize, Qatar and Ghana demonstrate the global appetite for U.S. beef - as well as the understanding and confidence nations place in America’s science-based international standards for safety. Each nation has recognized international trade standards - allowing entry of U.S. beef and beef products from cattle of all ages.

Schafer notes officials from USDA and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative have worked to restore markets in line with international standards of the World Organization for Animal Health - and more than 100 countries allow for imports of U.S. beef and beef products.

According to USDA - the Central American countries of Costa Rica and Belize have strong tourism sectors. Costa Rica also represents an important port and gateway to other Latin American markets. The U.S. exported more than 2.6-million dollars in beef and beef products to Costa Rica in 2003. The U.S. is the number one trading partner of Belize - a small country that relies on foreign imports.

Qatar borders the Persian Gulf and Saudi Arabia and is home to one of the highest per capita income levels in the world. USDA says strong export growth is expected to this market that imported more than 1.2-million dollars worth of U.S. beef in 2003.

Ghana - a West African nation - is a relatively new market for U.S. beef.