SA acts decisively to remove US citrus ban

RAY SMUTS SOUTH African citrus sales to the US have resumed following the discovery of false codling moth larvae in certain shipments, resulting in a June 16, US-imposed, ban. The resumption of shipping, distribution and marketing of citrus to the US follows decisive action by South African citrus growers, supported by the South African and US departments of agriculture, to clear up the dispute surrounding the larvae discovery, reported in three shipments by three different exporters. Says Western Cape Grower Association spokesman Gerrit van der Merwe: “We are still clarifying certain data with some of the citrus growing states. “The underlying integrity of the South African cold sterilisation programme for citrus shipments to the US has been accepted and proven totally reliable to stop any false codling moth larvae that may escape the very strict inspection programme from surviving the journey. “As responsible growers, we understand the concerns US growers have but we are totally convinced there is no danger whatsoever to US producers.” What makes the South African sterilisation programme to the US stricter than for any other world destination requiring this type of practice, is that fruit is pre-cooled to a temperature of - 0.5 degrees Celsius, remaining at that level for the duration of the sterilisation period. This year’s citrus sales have started off very well and growers are looking forward to a very successful season.