Australian growers warn of major risks from banana imports

Banana growers on the Coffs Coast are pushing back against a federal review that could allow fresh Cavendish banana imports from the Philippines. The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) is currently reassessing quarantine rules after the Philippines requested market access. Australia does not currently allow fresh banana imports from any country.

DAFF says imports will only be approved if biosecurity risks can be effectively controlled. However, local producers argue that even a small chance of disease introduction is too great. They warn that pests such as Moko disease or black Sigatoka could devastate Australian banana farms, many of which are family-run.

Growers are also concerned about pricing pressure. The Philippines produces more than 5.9 million tonnes of bananas per year, compared to under 375,000 tonnes in Australia. They fear large-scale imports could flood the market, push prices down, and force Australian farmers out of business.

The Australian Banana Growers Council supports the local position, stating there is no risk management measure that can guarantee zero disease entry. The Council argues that once introduced, such diseases are “almost impossible to eradicate.”

DAFF will conduct field inspections in the Philippines and release an issues paper for public consultation before any decisions are made.

source: nambuccavalley.newsofthearea.com.au

photo: thepacker.com