16 August 2018
Purpose
The purpose of this Industry Advice Notice (IAN) is to advise industry that exports of Cucumber Green Mottle Mosaic Virus (CGMMV) host commodities to New Zealand are prohibited due to changed import conditions requiring pest free area (PFA) recognition.
Summary of changes and key points
- The New Zealand National Plant Protection Organisation, The Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) has advised that, effective 20 August 2018, all CGMMV host commodities must be sourced from PFAs recognised as free of the disease.
- Until CGMMV PFAs can be demonstrated and recognised by New Zealand MPI, the export of host commodities is prohibited.
- Commodities affected are:
- Cucumbers (Cucumis sativus)
- Melons (Cucumis melo)
- Watermelons (Citrullus lanatus)
- Pumpkins/scallopinis/zucchinis (Cucurbita pepo).
- MICoR has been updated to reflect the prohibition.
- Consignments currently on the water will be subject to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing on arrival to verify freedom from the virus.
- The department is currently pursuing alternative interim measures in order to facilitate ongoing trade.
Contact information
If you have any questions regarding this IAN please email the Horticulture Exports Program.
Mr David Ironside
Assistant Secretary
Plant Export Operations Branch