This week Brazil Ag Minister Blairo Maggi met with U.S. Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue and asked him to lift the ban on beef imports the U.S. has placed on Brazilian product. South Dakota Stock Growers Executive Director Silvia Christen says Perdue is right to insist Brazil make progress on inspections before any timeline is set that would allow lifting of those restrictions.

She says besides insisting on inspection progress, the U.S. needs to keep a close eye on the business activities of JBS Brazil.

Christen says the U.S. must be protected from any country that has problems controlling or eliminating foot and mouth disease.

Following this week’s meeting, Maggi said it could be 30 to 60 days before the ban on Brazilian beef would be lifted.