WASHINGTON D.C.—U.S. Senator Johnny Isakon (R-Ga.) is urging South African President Jacob Zuma to resolve the remaining elements of an agreement reached in Paris to allow poultry exports into South Africa.
That sentiment was sent in a letter written by Isakon and Senator Chris Coons (D-De.), according to a press release from Isakson's office.
The settlement, led by the United States Trade Representatives, the Department of State, Ambassador Patrick Gaspard and industry experts was reached in June.
"Our understanding is that there are two processes that need to be completed in South Africa to implement the Paris agreement," the letter read.
The senators said a rebate facility must be created that would "legally exempt the annual quota amount from antidumping duties" and that "the rules for allocation and administration of the quota must be developed through a transparent legal process."
Both senators are members of the Foreign Relations Committee, and expressed their disappointment for what they said was a slow response from South Africa.
“You also know that it is crucially important to both of us that there be a successful and expeditious resolution of this issue so that the U.S. poultry industry can begin again to participate in the South African market," the letter read.
As it stands, poultry products are expected to be allowed into the South African market by the end of the year.
The poultry industry generates $15.1 billion dollars annually for Georgia's economy.
