Mexico Lifts Age Restriction for Sheep Carcass Imports

October 10, 2008 - The American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) has learned that Mexico has lifted its age restriction on the importation of sheep carcasses. For over five years now, exporters had to comply with an age-verification system to demonstrate that sheep carcass exports were from lambs of under 12 months of age. With the lifting of this restriction, it will allow the exportation of older than 12-months-of-age and mutton carcasses to Mexico.

"This is great news. It will allow U.S. exporters and Mexican importers to do business as there is significant demand for U.S. sheepmeat in Mexico, and it should also reduce a regulatory burden on U.S. sheep processors," said Paul Rodgers, ASI deputy director of policy.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is currently in the process of working with its field offices in various agencies to ensure their personnel have the appropriate certificates and processes in place.

ASI will provide updates as more information becomes available.

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