New Zealand launches public consultation on import requirements for fresh blueberries
New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has launched a public consultation to establish import requirements for fresh blueberries intended for human consumption, according to non-profit United Fresh New Zealand Incorporated.
The comment period began on March 31 and will run until May 15.
According to available information, the initiative responds to market access requests submitted by Chile, Mexico, Morocco, Peru, and the United States—all seeking to export fresh blueberries to the New Zealand market.
The MPI is assessing both the conditions for entry and the necessary measures to prevent pests and diseases and safeguard the country’s biosecurity.
New Zealand wants safe blueberries
The country's government invited industry and technical stakeholders to provide information, sector-specific knowledge, and feedback. The office is particularly interested in identifying pests requiring additional measures, assessing the relevance of the proposed measures, and evaluating the operational feasibility of importing under the proposed conditions.
The entity also seeks to gather feedback on the consultation process itself, in line with a participatory and evidence-based approach.
The MPI emphasized that developing an import sanitary standard for blueberries addresses the need to balance phytosanitary protection with facilitating international trade.
The organization stressed that biosecurity measures must align with international standards and be based on scientific criteria.
*All images are referential.
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