The main reason is the protective government import tariffs that have traditionally kept the more desirable cuts of beef out of the country.

But now steps are being taken by the Ministry of Economy to increase the quota for tax-exempt fresh meat by 1,500 tons, to 6,120 tons. Officials say this is an effort to promote competition in the Israeli market. The ministry is also raising quotas for the tax-exempt import of frozen produce, olive oil and grape juice in an effort to bring soaring food prices down.