U.S. imposes restrictions on fresh fig supplies from Mexico

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the United States (APHIS) has implemented restrictions on all commercial supplies of fresh fig fruits imported from Mexico to prevent the emergence of black fig fly (Silba adipata McAlpine) in the U.S, starting from August 24. 

This measure was taken in response to black fig fly detections in fig orchards of Michoacán, Baja California Sur, Jalisco, Puebla and Morelos. 

All fresh figs grown in Mexico will need to undergo an APHIS-approved irradiation treatment at 400 Gy prior to being imported to the U.S.

Fruit supplies could be irradiated before or upon-arrival in the U.S. at an irradiation facility approved by APHIS. The treatment upon-arrival requires a compliance agreement. 

All fig fruits brought in personal vehicles, passenger bags, delivered by mail or direct express carrier shipments will be prohibited. 

source: aphis.usda.gov

photo: preveniremar.com