The Department of Agriculture has announced the lift of the ban that was placed for South African Hass avocado exports to Japan. This ban came down towards the close of November after both nations agreed in a working plan for the proper application of export regulations.

Reggie Ngcobo, spokesperson for the Department of Agriculture Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) has stated the fact that South Africa is a leading world producer and exporter of avocados. The DALRRD is responsible for the registration process and approval for each of the production facilities and packing facilities, according to the approved program of work.

The registered growers must follow the best agricultural practices, which include orchard sanitation as well as an integrated pest management program. This is essential for growing avocados in regions which are not contaminated by quarantine pests an issue of great importance to South Africa.

Source: algoafm.co.za