DAFF invites submissions on imported NZ potato proposal

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has issued a statement regarding the proposal to import potatoes from New Zealand for processing.

DAFF says its biosecurity scientists have undertaken a rigorous analysis of the pests and diseases associated with New Zealand potatoes and is now inviting the public to make a submission on the draft review.

Strict quarantine conditions would apply to the imported potatoes, DAFF said. If the proposal goes ahead, the potatoes must:

• only come from farms free from potato cyst nematode and potato black wart
• be washed and/or brushed to remove soil and be free from trash such as leaf matter
• undergo inspection and certification by New Zealand government (or an independent verification agency approved by them)
• be inspected and cleared by the department
• be transported under quarantine seal to a Quarantine Approved Premises for processing

Last week, AUSVEG, the peak national body for Australia’s vegetable growers, claimed that the import of New Zealand potatoes could introduce Zebra Chip disease, which AUSVEG claims caused over $60 million of losses in New Zealand in 2008-09. AUSVEG is calling on the government to scrap the proposed importation plan as it claims that the disease is not fully understood, even by DAFF.

In response, DAFF says its scientists have “paid particular attention” to the potential for Zebra Chip disease to be introduced into Australia through the imported NZ potatoes. “We also recognise the significant consequences for Australia should this disease become established,” the DAFF statement said.

According to DAFF, Zebra Chip disease can only be spread by the tomato-potato psyllid (Bactericera cockerelli), which DAFF says lives and feeds on leaves and stems, not the potato itself. The zero tolerance stance on trash should mean there is no viable pathway for the insect to enter the country, DAFF claims.

Additionally, the imported potatoes would only be used for processing into fries or crisps, meaning the potatoes would not enter the Australian environment in a state that could spread the disease.

Submissions on the draft review close on 3 September 2012. For more information on making a submission, click here.