A delegation of experts from the Department of Plant Protection, of the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply, expressed its satisfaction with the phytosanitary control system applied by Argentina on the apples, pears and quinces exported by Brazil.
From 7 to 16 April, Brazil inspectors, accompanied by professionals of the National Health and Food Quality Service (SENASA), assessed the Export Program for the aforementioned pome fruits under a Risk Mitigation System (RMS) of the codling moth pest.
The Brazilian delegation visited production facilities and packing plants in the province of Mendoza and packaging and refrigeration plants in Rio Negro and Neuquén. In the three provinces, the delegation audited the various phytosanitary measures enforced, as well as the document and traceability controls for exported apples and pears.
At the final meeting, held at the headquarters of SENASA, the Brazilian delegation expressed its satisfaction with the Phytosanitary Certification Programme, especially stressing the initiatives carried out by the regional centres Cuyo and Patagonia Norte SENASA, which offer their support for the export of pears and apples. A report on the visit will also be sent, including proposals on future steps to follow, given the ongoing development of the programme, in terms of trade between the two countries.
Brazil absorbs over 80% of Mendoza's pear and apple exports, and over 35% of Rio Negro and Neuquén's. During 2013, Argentina exported to Brazil more than 194,000 tonnes of pome fruits.
Source: Senasa.gov.ar
