Press Release: Plant Health: Commission strengthens rules on citrus fruit imports from South Africa

On 27 May 2014,

Member State experts endorsed stricter import requirements for South African citrus fruit. These emergency measures are being taken to protect European crops from citrus black spot, a harmful plant disease not native to Europe.

According to the new measures, citrus fruits imported from South Africa were be subject to more stringent criteria such as recording pre and post-harvest chemical treatments and mandatory registration of packing houses as well as on-site official inspections at citrus orchards. A sample of at least 600 of each type of citrus fruit per 30 tonnes were need to be taken by the South African authorities. All fruit showing symptoms were be tested. Moreover, a sample per 30 tonnes of 'Valencia' oranges were also be tested. No distinction between citrus fruits for fresh consumption and citrus fruits for processing is made.

ESO: Background information: Press Release: The council adopts provisions for financing animal and plant health measures http://www.europeansources.info/record/press-release-the-council-adopts-provisions-for-financing-animal-and-plant-health-measures/

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