After recent news that 43 adult cows and two calves on a farm in northern Japan are suspected of having mad cow disease and will be incinerated, Senator John Thune issued the following statement calling on Japanese leaders to recognize the United States' standard of excellence and resume beef trade immediately:

"Given the recent discovery of more than 40 cows on a farm in northern Japan suspected of being infected with mad cow disease, I would hope that Japanese leaders recognize the U.S. produces some of the highest quality beef in the world and choose to resume trade with the U.S. as soon as possible," Thune said.
"Our cattle and ranching industries in South Dakota and across the country adhere to a standard of excellence that is respected by nations worldwide. It is time for Japanese leaders to recognize this and drop their double-standard."