In an era of declining domestic beef consumption and financial uncertainty, US beef producers have increasingly considered market develop­ment, both domestic and international, a key to the future prosperity of the industry. Japan presents a particularly attractive export market. Per capita beef consumption in Japan has steadily increased throughout the last several decades although it remains small by Western standards. With large and growing per capita income levels, many observers consider the Japanese market to be an important component in the future development and strength of the US industry.