AN EU ban on beef imports from Brazil was partially lifted yesterday when the European Commission said imports could resume from 106 Brazilian farms.
Brazilian beef exporters said at least 1,000 farms would need to be cleared for export before normal service could resume.
But the commission's decision to ease the ban imposed last month was criticised last night by Irish farm organisations. The Irish Farmers' Association said it was "highly irresponsible".
It would continue with its campaign for equivalent standards for all food producers whether in Ireland or in importing countries.
London-based Brazilian Beef Information Service director Rob Metcalfe said agreement had been reached between the commission and the Brazilian authorities on a list of 106 farms.
"This is a victory for the consumer and common sense over the protectionist campaigns of some EU farming groups," he said, adding that more farms will be added to the list as EU officials are currently auditing the farm inspection process in Brazil.
He said Brazil had been unable to export beef to the EU, one of its largest markets, since the beginning of the month, and this had been hailed as a major victory by Irish, Scottish and Welsh farmers' leaders, "who spouted all sorts of alarmist nonsense about the 'danger' that Brazilian beef may pose.
"In fact, the issue was about traceability on the farm in Brazil. As today's decision demonstrates, Brazil's beef producers are clearly able to meet EU standards. Many more will undoubtedly follow."
IFA president Pádraig Walshe said the decision was based on "political expediency".