Japan completes pest-risk assessment stage in US fresh potato talks

Japan has completed the pest-risk assessment results for US fresh potatoes intended for general distribution and will present the findings at an online meeting on September 18, according to MAFF.

Fresh agricultural products that Japan prohibits for plant-health reasons can be considered for access when the exporting country requests a change. MAFF said those discussions are carried out using scientific evidence under the WTO Agreement on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures.

US fresh potatoes for general distribution remain subject to Japan’s phytosanitary import restrictions. The latest announcement does not confirm market opening; it marks another stage in the technical assessment and consultation process.

The September 18 briefing will run from 13:00 to 14:30 online, with registration open until September 11.

source and photo: maff.go.jp