Bolivian banana producers receive positive assessment from Chilean inspectors

Bolivia has received a favourable assessment following an inspection of its banana production and export controls by Chilean agricultural authorities, according to Frutas de Chile.

The findings were reported by Bolivia's National Agricultural Health and Food Safety Service (Senasag), following a visit by specialists from Chile's Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG).

Inspections in Cochabamba

The Chilean delegation examined facilities in Cochabamba, a major banana-producing region.

Inspectors visited plantations and packing houses in Puerto Villarroel and Chimoré, as well as the LIDIVECO laboratories in Cochabamba and the PROCEF phytosanitary control facility in Chimoré.

Their work covered pest management, hygiene standards, product traceability and the procedures used to issue phytosanitary certificates.

Senasag reported that the inspection produced satisfactory results. The agency also highlighted improvements in Bolivia's monitoring and certification systems.

Next steps for market access

The findings support Bolivia's efforts to obtain permission to export fresh bananas to Chile. However, shipments cannot begin until the Chilean authorities complete the necessary approval procedures.

Access to Chile would allow Bolivian banana producers to reach an additional export market. The two countries are also discussing sanitary requirements for other agricultural products.

source and photo: frutasdechile.cl