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. 
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
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