Spanish citrus sector calls for action on virus threat

Spain’s lemon and grapefruit sector has asked Murcia’s regional authorities to take stronger action against CYVCV, a citrus virus detected in the region.

AILIMPO’s production branch agreed to request an official response from the Murcia government. The organisation wants the presence of Potexvirus citriflavivenae, known as CYVCV, to be officially declared in the Region of Murcia.

The sector is also asking for effective eradication measures. These should include the removal and destruction of infected plant material, according to AILIMPO.

Another key request is financial support for growers whose orchards may need to be removed. AILIMPO says compensation is necessary if producers are required to destroy infected trees.

The organisation also wants the regional government to publish clear details of its disease monitoring plan. It says inspections must represent the whole citrus production area, especially new plantations made in the last two years.

AILIMPO warned that the virus could create serious problems for lemon growers if action is delayed. The association says fast measures are needed to limit the spread of the disease and protect Murcia’s citrus production.

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source and photo: ailimpo.com