The US Department of Agriculture has announced the US will begin exporting breeding cattle, bovine embryos breeding, fattening and slaughter swine and breeding and sport horses to Russia.
Russia will accept cattle born on or after implementation of the US' 1997 ruminant-to-ruminant feed ban.
US Agriculture Secretary, Ed Schafer, said Russia's decision demonstrates America's trading partners' confidence in their ability to effectively protect animal health and food safety.
"This decision opens up a new market for US livestock producers, and we are pleased that such an important trading partner is looking to the US to help establish a significant livestock market."
Russia is turning to the world market to import livestock and genetics to restore its livestock herd, which has been declining during the last 15 years.
The value of these new markets for US exporters is substantial.
"The new live animal protocols will allow US exporters to participate in Russia's $300 million market for live animal imports.
"USDA has worked closely with Russia and other trading partners to establish full market access for US livestock. USDA will continue to encourage other countries to take steps to align their requirements with international standards."
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