Saudi Arabia and the US have recently confirmed on an agreement to reopen the Saudi Arabian market to US beef and beef products following a four-year ban, said a report.

US Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Joseph W Westphal applauded the decision and revealed that the teams from both countries recently met for extensive discussions with the goal of expanding bilateral trade to benefit the private sectors of both nations, reported the Saudi Gazette.

He commended the efforts of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, the team from the US Embassy in Riyadh, the office of the US Trade Representative, and the US Department of Agriculture for finding a solution which addresses the market needs of both the countries, it said.

As a result of the decision announced in Riyadh on June 28, Saudi Arabia will allow imports of beef and beef products from US cattle less than 30 months of age, with access expanded to include products from US cattle under 48 months after a phase-in period, added the report.