The United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS) has amended the Federal Order for imports of tomato and pepper hosts of the Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV).
APHIS assessed the likelihood of introducing ToBRFV via fresh fruit and via propagative plant material, including seed. Their conclusion is that fresh fruit is an unlikely pathway for the introduction of ToBRFV into tomato and pepper production areas. Propagative plant material however remains a risk.
ToBRFV inspection certificates are no longer required for imports of fresh tomatoes and peppers.
Restrictions of propagative plant material including seeds have been maintained and Inspection certificates will continue to be required at the time of entry.
Additional information can be found in APHIS’s ToBRFV Press Release and the Federal Order.
If you have any questions, please contact transitionteamus@willsonintl.com