USDA Announces Rule Allowing More Fruit and Vegetable Imports
December 22, 2006
This week, the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) released a final rule allowing certain fruit and vegetable imports into the United States that were already eligible for importation under permit, but they have not, until now, been specifically listed in the regulations. Fruits and vegetables included in the final rule are grapes from Argentina, citrus from the Bahamas, leeks from Canada, tomatoes from Chile, rambutan from Mexico and mangoes from the Philippines. All of the fruits and vegetables subject to this rule, as a condition of entry, may be inspected and subject to treatment at the port of first arrival. Some fruits and vegetables will be required to meet other special conditions as well. "With the liberalization of international trade in agricultural commodities and commerce it is vital that the United States maintains its responsibility for the protection of the nation's food supply, our agricultural economy, and plant health," said Robert Guenther, senior vice president, public policy of United Fresh. "Therefore USDA must ensure that the regulatory protocols provide the greatest reduction in risks, establish a consistent and clear communication structure, and provide for problem resolution with built-in accountability," he concluded. For more information, access USDA Final APHIS rule or please contact Robert Guenther at (202) 303-3409.
United Fresh Produce Association
1901 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Suite 1100
Washington, DC 20006
Tel: 202 303 3400
Fax: 202 303 3433 united@unitedfresh.org
