Update - Candidatus Liberibacter species, 28 July 2008

28 July 2008

Grower Update

MAF Biosecurity New Zealand (MAFBNZ) has received a letter from the Japan Ministry of Agriculture, Forest and Fisheries (MAFF) responding to our proposal that trade resumes between Japan and New Zealand for tomatoes and capsicums.

Despite initial positive indications, Japan MAFF has put in place a temporary suspension pending further scientific information. Japan has also outlined proposed conditions, including site freedom, which are not practical and will require further discussion.

MAFBNZ are responding with a letter tomorrow, and discussions are proceeding with industry to determine how best to progress negotiations with Japan.