New Import Requirements for Mexican Fresh Potatoes for EatingVis

New Import Requirements for Mexican Fresh Potatoes for Eating

Refer to the docket at the Web site http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=APHIS-2013-0037.

Effective April 25, 2014, APHIS will allow the importation of fresh potatoes from Mexico into the United States.

As a condition of entry the potatoes must be produced in accordance with a systems approach including the following:

·         seed potatoes were certified

·         packing houses are registered

·         shipments are commercial

·         chain of custody is verified

In addition, potatoes must be:

·         washed and soil-free

·         inspected internally and externally and certified free of harmful agricultural pests

·         treated with a sprout inhibitor to prevent misdirection of table stock for planting

·         sealed in containers

·         accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate with an additional declaration stating freedom from harmful pests of concern

·         subject to inspection at port of entry

The final rule was published March 26, 2014. The comment period for this rule closed November 26, 2013. If you would like to view the public comments on this rule, refer to http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=APHIS-2013-0037.

For further information contact David B. Lamb, Senior Regulatory Policy Specialist, United States Department of Agriculture–Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service–Plant Protection and Quarantine–Regulations, Permits, & Manuals–Regulatory Coordination and Compliance (USDA-APHIS-PPQ-RPM-RCC), 4700 River Road Unit 133, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231, (301) 851-2103.