Bhindi, long bean and tubua from Sigatoka farms suspended from export

The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji has temporarily suspended all farms of bhindi, long bean and tubua in Sigatoka from exporting these products to New Zealand.

This is following concerns raised regarding pests in the farms which have affected the export product.

BAF Executive Chairman Xavier Khan says that sustaining the pathway of exports is paramount and they expect all farmers to play their part as this can affect Fiji’s economy.

Khan says they have taken necessary actions to ensure that interceptions of ‘Thrips palmi’ at international borders are reduced.

He says that once the pest is under control, they will remove the suspension however BAF warns all fresh produce exporters not to breach any export procedures or manipulate them as it can have severe impacts on the agricultural sector.

Meanwhile the 'Thrips palmi' is a regulated pest in New Zealand and considered a high impact pest which if established could lead to high levels of economic consequences.