Inge Ribbens, Frugi Venta:
"No citrus black spot found on South African citrus, but situation unworkable"
announced measures in the war against possible infection by citrus black spot (CBS) on South African citrus. They threatened an import stop in case of five instances of black spot found, whilst last year even 27 cases were discovered. Nevertheless this season not a single instance of citrus black spot was discovered in South African citrus. There were, however, a few cases of black spot on Argentinian lemons, but for these the threats do not apply.
"We hear that the measures and controls in South Africa are extremely strict, both official and business wise (growers organizations and exports). There is a great fear
of possible occurrences and each risk is to be excluded. In a way the citrus would still be removed from the vessel. This leads to unworkable situations in South Africa. The result of no findings is good, but it is not the solution. South Africa is also emphatically looking at other export destinations" manageress Inge Ribbens, responsible for phytosanitary affairs at Frugi Venta, tells.
Before the summer the draft report of EFSA is expected about the real risk of infection by black spot in the European growing areas. "After that a consultation round, in which everybody can react, therefore the definite statement can only be expected towards the end of the year. When the result of this investigation is that there are no risks, the position of the South African suppliers and exporters will be a lot stronger" Inge concludes.
