The Ministry of Development, Industry and Commerce (Mific) reported on the likelihood of imposed phytosanitary barriers for Nicaraguan onion exports within the Central American market and assured that they are looking for commercial destinations for this product, which is experiencing severe marketing problems.
Mific's Minister, Orlando Solórzano, affirms that since the issue came to his attention three weeks ago he has ordered export specialists to seek new markets, although no specific details were given on the process.
In previous weeks, representatives of the country's onion sector had accused the Ministry of authorising the import of Dutch onions. Some importers purchased excessive volumes and the national market consequently saturated.
"Now the neighbouring countries are applying phytosanitary restrictions and this puts hurdles on our exports, but the situation will improve," he added.
Solórzano said that he will propose a standardisation of phytosanitary measures for products such as onions, to prevent the use of rules for the detriment of other country's exports.
This would include agricultural practices and pest control systems, although no details were given on when the proposal would be made.
Source: Laprensa