Philippines: Korean paprika okay for import
“This is the first time that we will allow paprika imports to enter the country. We have not allowed paprika imports in the past,” Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) Director Clarito M. Barron said in a text message.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) yesterday issued Administrative Circular No. 1, Series of 2013, the rules and regulations governing the importation of fresh paprika from Jeju Island, Korea.
The circular stated that all exporters and processing facilities that intend to ship to the Philippines shall be registered with the Korean Animal, Plant, and Fisheries Quarantine and Inspection Agency (QIA), as only those included in the list shall be allowed to export to the country.
The issuance also stated that paprika to be exported to the Philippines should be packed within 48 hours of harvest.
The spice must also be stored at 18 degrees Celsius or below.
All inbound Korean paprika must also undergo inspections by the QIA.
Source: www.bworldonline.com