Assurances needed for kiwifruit industry
Allan Dawson, managing director of Katikati post-harvest company Aongatete, says the discovery of Queensland Fruit Flies in Auckland is of considerable concern to the industry.
The discovery of Queensland Fruit Fly in Auckland has put the kiwifruit industry on edge ahead of the main season.
“I don't pretend to understand all that is involved in biosecurity at our borders,” says Allan, “but we have to have dialogue to find out what else can be done to stop pests and disease arriving.
“This is not just about the kiwifruit industry. The Queensland Fruit Fly is a bad one which affects many crops and we don't want it here.”
Allan says the penalties for bringing in fruit and vegetables undeclared across the borders don't appear to be tough enough.
Click here to read more