The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) in Manila has signed the final administrative document that allows importers in that country to apply for permits to receive South African fruit.
Citrus Growers’ Association CEO Justin Chadwick says that although access was announced towards the end of 2020, this now opens the doors.
It’s the culmination of the ongoing collective efforts of the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) Plant Health department, CRI, PPECB and Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum (FPEF).
Also playing an instrumental role was past ambassador in Manila, Martin Slabber, who kept the pressure on throughout his tenure, says Chadwick