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Historically, Australia has maintained strict controls on imported beef, particularly from the United States. The ban was rooted in concerns over animal health risks, notably diseases such as Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as mad cow disease, and bovine tuberculosis. These measures have been part of Australia's broader biosecurity strategy to protect its domestic cattle industry.
However, recent reports reveal that despite the ban, Australia imported approximately three billion dollars worth of beef from the US in the previous year alone. This under-the-radar trade suggests a complex relationship where economic interests sometimes override formal restrictions.