Potato growers and industry representatives met in Melbourne to discuss the national approach to managing Potato mop-top virus (PMTV), following its detection in Tasmania earlier this year.
More than 50 participants attended, including growers, industry groups, and state and federal biosecurity officials. The meeting, convened by Ausveg, aimed to gather feedback from across the sector as responsibility for PMTV management shifts from government-led response to industry practices.
© Ausveg
PMTV has so far only been confirmed in Tasmania. Restrictions remain in place on the movement of potatoes from Tasmania to mainland Australia. The virus affects potato crops but does not pose any risk to human health. After Biosecurity Tasmania ended its formal response, PMTV was declared not technically feasible to eradicate.
Participants discussed testing, surveillance, and monitoring needs, and there was broad support for developing a harmonised national framework. The meeting also supported forming a working group made up of regulators and sector representatives to outline practical steps for national coordination. There was further interest in progressing the creation of a unified national seed certification system.
Ausveg CEO Michael Coote said the purpose of the meeting was to ensure growers' concerns are reflected in future PMTV management. He said the shift from eradication to management requires careful consideration to maintain market access and limit the spread of the virus. Coote added that growers are seeking a coordinated national approach to support continued trade while managing risk.
He said ongoing cooperation between government agencies and the potato production sector will be necessary to protect the integrity of the national industry as PMTV management develops.
For more information:
Ausveg
Tel: +61 (0) 3 9882 0277
Email: [email protected]
www.ausveg.com.au
