U.S. proposes allowing fresh Moroccan raspberry imports

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U.S. proposes allowing fresh Moroccan raspberry imports

Two years after the U.S. opened its doors for Moroccan blueberry imports, a new rule has been proposed to allow raspberry shipments from the North African country. raspberry_71808991

Under the proposal, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) would allow fresh raspberry imports into the Continental United States using a systems approach.

The organization said raspberries may carry a fungal pest called Monilinia fructigena, that is found in Morocco.

However, it said the import regulations would include registration of growing areas with the Moroccan government, inspections, and a phytosanitary certificate to ensure the fruit poses no risks.

APHIS said it conducted a pest risk assessment (PRA) that identified the fungus as a pest of concern, and a risk management document (RMD) that recommends phytosanitary measures to prevent it entering the country.

Comments are welcomed until Oct. 25, 2016, following which a decision will be made regarding any changes to import rules.

On August 29, 2014, new regulations came into effect allowing fresh Moroccan blueberry imports into the U.S.

Photo: www.shutterstock.com

www.freshfruitportal.com

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