US hopes Russia will accept poultry in transit

WASHINGTON Dec 31 (Reuters) - U.S. poultry exporters are optimistic an estimated 30,000 tonnes of poultry in transit to Russia will be allowed to enter the country despite a ban set to begin on Jan. 1, an industry official said on Thursday.

"There may be about 30,000 tonnes en route or at the port in Russia, but we are optimistic that it will be allowed to enter, based on the assurances earlier from the Russian Veterinary Service," said Jim Sumner, president of the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council.

"Future exports are questionable, however, until this issue gets resolved," Sumner said. (Reporting by Roberta Rampton; Editing by David Gregorio)