Smith Lauds End of Russian Poultry Ban

Press Release

In a recent letter to President Obama, Smith and 19 of his colleagues expressed frustration over the fact the ban was not scientifically justified, nor was it consistent with World Trade Organization obligations which Russia purports to someday adopt.

The ban began when Russia announced it would no longer accept the use of chlorinated rinses in the United States, a practice which meets international standards of food safety. Once the agreement is signed, U.S. producers will be able to resume shipments of poultry to Russia.

Nebraska's poultry industry provides direct employment for more than 2,200 workers and supports more than 2,600 jobs. Nebraska internationally exports approximately 40 percent of its poultry products.

"This is great news for Nebraska's poultry producers as well as poultry exporters nationwide. Russia represents a valuable market, and when this ban is lifted we will immediately see the economic benefits. America's ag products are the safest in the world, and I am glad to see Russia will allow our poultry products once again," Smith said.

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