Russian suspension hits Australia's kangaroo meat industry hard
![Russia has banned the importing of kangaroo meat because of concerns over possible contamination. [ABC]](http://www.abc.net.au/reslib/200905/r372514_1729645.jpg "Russia has banned the importing of kangaroo meat because of concerns over possible contamination. [ABC]")
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Russia has banned the importing of kangaroo meat because of concerns over possible contamination. [ABC]
Scott Bevan, Moscow
Last Updated:
Australia's kangaroo meat industry is being devastated by a continuing import ban imposed by Russia.
The Russians were taking up to sixty percent of available supplies, but officials are refusing to lift the current suspension until Australia can prove that the meat is safe and free from contaminants.
The ban has been in force since August, after the Russian government agency, Rosselkhoznadzor, first voiced its concerns about possible contamination.
Now the struggling Australian industry is appealing for assistance from the federal government.
Alexei Alexsenko from Rosselkhoznadzor says he's sorry the kangaroo industry's experiencing hard times, but it must demonstrate the product satisfies Russian hygiene regulations.
"If the meat is safe, Russians would buy it in great numbers," said Mr Alexsenko.
The ABC understands the ban will be discussed at a meeting of Australian and Russian government representatives in Moscow next week.
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