USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) issued an announcement soliciting \ public comment on risk assessments and potential regulatory policy options for Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) in fresh tomato and pepper fruit for consumption, as well as, plant propagative material.
In 2019, APHIS issued a Federal Order restricting the importation of tomato and pepper fruit and plant propagative material. In 2020, the agency clarified the requirements for fruit which required an additional declaration for tomatoes and/or pepper fruit from countries that already must provide a phytosanitary certificate.
Now, APHIS has developed risk assessments to update its policy decisions related to the virus. These pathways include tomato and pepper fruit for consumption and a propagative plant materials risk assessment. The agency is seeking scientific information that would provide a greater understanding of the distribution of ToBRFV, best management practices, and information about the economic impacts of the potential regulatory options.
APHIS will accept public feedback received by August 30, 2023. The Stakeholder Risk Assessment Consultation webpage contains all of the relevant documentation.
If you have any questions, please direct them to PPQPRAComments@usda.gov; please indicate ToBRFV in the subject line.