This week the Japanese Food Safety Commission is meeting and may consider lifting the age restriction on beef exports from the U.S. to Japan. Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association President Krist Wollum says the fact they’re even considering that is positive.

He says even though the Japanese haven’t yet indicated a timeline on when they may lift that restriction is still encouraged they’re reviewing it.

Wollum says Pacific Rim nations like Japan are very important for U.S. cattle producers and getting a bilateral deal worked out soon with the Japanese is a priority for his group.

Having the trade restriction loosened would help the U.S. as it competes with Australia for the Japanese market.