Britain A Key Market For USDA

USDA Undersecretary Ted McKinney is always looking for additional trade opportuniteis for American producers. In fact, he was in Britain last month. 

"When I arrived I was to meet the minister of Ag which would be my counterpart, the Undersecretary, that night he was elevated to the secretary so we had the change to be the first to meet the secretary. He was very clear when talking about their concerns about animal welfare they really have taken those animal welfare stances to different places, different heights."

London recently indicated they will not change their stance on animal welfare standards when trade talks with the U.S. take place. McKinney said he anticipates some challenges in this post-Brexit world.

"The G7 and in a modern, science-based decision making. It will not be easy. It's been a lot of years where they've been married to their friends across the channel."

How important is Britain for the USDA? Britain is already scheduled as a trade mission destination for the USDA this year.

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