Canadian beef producers will benefit from new access to Kazakhstan, Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz announced July 26.

The federal government has secured market access for boneless beef from animals over 30 months of age, in addition to the recently negotiated access for all beef from animals under 30 months. This new market access is estimated by the Canadian beef industry to be worth up to $1 million annually for eligible exporters.

“We’ve enhanced our trading relationship with Kazakhstan by supplying world-class beef to a market of strategic importance, giving producers the opportunity to compete for sales in this country,” Ritz said.

The government has successfully secured the same beef access as with Russia, expanding opportunities for Canadian beef exports and further strengthening the trade relationship between Canada and Kazakhstan, he said in a release.

The release said Canada is currently negotiating new import requirements with the regional Customs Union, which notably includes Russia and Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan imported almost $14 million worth of Canadian agricultural and agri-food products in 2011.