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Jody Larison
Phone: (573) 751-2829

For Immediate Release: May 22, 2006

Missouri Department of Agriculture Hosts Japanese Beef Importers

(CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo.) – The Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) is pleased to welcome a delegation of Taiwanese and Japanese beef importers, retailers and distributors to Missouri to tour the state and showcase the superior quality of Missouri beef. MDA anticipates the re-opening of the Japanese beef market and is pleased with the interest and investment these businesses have made in sending representatives to the state of Missouri.

“We are pleased to have this opportunity to showcase the quality of Missouri beef and to talk about the new voluntary Quality Systems Assessment program that will allow us to distinguish Missouri beef and ultimately build market value for Missouri ranchers and farmers,” said Gov. Matt Blunt.

Missouri was the first state in the nation to develop a voluntary Quality System Assessment umbrella program. MDA provides managerial oversight of the program that is available to all Missouri producers. MDA has been fortunate to have the partnership of MFA, Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, Missouri Veterinary Medical Association and Joplin Regional Stockyards in this endeavor.

“We have a superior product to market,” said MDA Director Fred Ferrell. “The QSA program allows us to gain market access. Our goal is to build value for Missouri ranchers and farmers.”

There are 56,000 beef producers in Missouri who by their efforts make Missouri the second largest beef producer in the nation. The four-day tour will take the group of importers, retailers and distributors through Cape Girardeau, Audrain, Miller and Camden counties.

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