Guatemala has dropped all bone-related restrictions for beef and beef products imported from the U.S. All beef and beef products derived from cattle born and raised in the U.S. are now eligible for export to Guatemala.

In addition, the Dominican Republic reopened partial beef trade with the U.S. Beef and beef products (including veal) derived from cattle less than 30 months of age produced under an approved Ag Marketing Service Export Verification Less Than 30 (LT30) months of age program are eligible for export.

Meanwhile, South Korea's Ministry of Ag and Forestry says the government of South Korea will decide whether to lift its ban on U.S. beef in early September. Korean officials say they want to send additional teams of experts to examine U.S. processing facilities. This inspection tour is scheduled for completion Sept. 3.

USDA's Enhanced BSE Surveillance Program continues to test targeted animals identified as most likely to have the disease. Since June 1, 2004, the program has tested 780,245 cattle and has found two confirmed cases.
-- Clint Peck