Wellington, New Zealand
June 4, 2008
MAF Biosecurity New Zealand (MAFBNZ) has today withdrawn
phytosanitary certification for New Zealand fresh tomato and
capsicum export produce until further notice, following the
confirmation of a new disease-causing bacterium in three
commercial hot-house operations in the North Island.
MAFBNZ Director Border Standards Tim Knox says the withdrawal of
phytosanitary certification is a pre-cautionary measure until
more information about the bacterium is available.
Mr Knox says little is known about if or how the bacterium may
have entered New Zealand, or its transmission, effect, and
distribution – “we have initiated a programme of research to
answer these questions. The results, of this research, will help
determine the feasibility of options for managing the disease.
“Initial findings suggest that the bacterium may be transmitted
by a small insect called the tomato/ potato psyllid - there are
no considered human health issues associated with the bacterium
or with eating tomatoes or capsicum.”
Mr Knox says MAFBNZ is working closely with Horticulture New
Zealand and sector representatives from the fresh tomato and
capsicum industry to discuss the situation and consider possible
response options. |
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