May 26, 2010

New Zealand ban on fresh produce imports from Queensland partially lifted

http://www.freshplaza.com

The Ministry of Agriculture has partially lifted a ban on fresh produce imports from Queensland.

Imports were suspended on Friday after fruit fly eggs were found in a container of rock melon, zucchini and beans from there.

MAF Biosecurity says it has reviewed Queensland's biosecurity measures and as a result has lifted the suspension on all produce, except rock melon and zucchini.

However, the agency says a ban on rock melon and zucchini will remain in place until the Australian Quarantine service completes its investigation.

Fruit fly are one of the biggest threats to New Zealand's horticulture industry.

In Australia, it is considered the country's most serious insect pest for fruit and vegetable crops.