APHIS releases pest risk assessment for citrus imports from Botswana
BOTSWANA – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has published a pest risk assessment (PRA) for fresh citrus imports from Botswana.
The report evaluates potential pest risks linked to importing lemons, grapefruits, mandarins, and sweet oranges into the United States from Botswana, aiming to address pest management and safety protocols.
APHIS has opened a 30-day consultation period, welcoming comments from stakeholders, industry partners, and the public. These comments will help shape the final decision on whether to allow these imports.
APHIS stated, “We encourage public input to ensure our evaluation considers all scientific and technical aspects.” Comments can be submitted via email, and the period remains open until November 4, 2024.
This consultation is an important step in determining whether citrus from Botswana meets U.S. regulatory requirements for import. The PRA can be accessed on APHIS’s Stakeholder Risk Assessment Consultation page.
Botswana’s citrus industry: A rising exporter
Botswana has made remarkable progress in citrus production, becoming a key player in the global market.
The Selebi-Phikwe Citrus Project, a major initiative covering more than 1,500 hectares, exports 70% of its produce, targeting international markets, including the Middle East, China, and the United States.
In 2024, Botswana exported over 3,500 tons of citrus, strengthening its economic position and contributing to job creation. The country is implementing strict protocols to ensure the quality and safety of its exports.
As part of these efforts, Botswana complies with international standards to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
One of the main challenges Botswana faces is the need to meet rigorous import regulations set by countries like the U.S., where pest control and disease prevention are top priorities.
APHIS’s pest risk assessment is an integral part of this process, ensuring that any potential risks to U.S. agriculture are thoroughly examined before trade is permitted.
With the country’s growing citrus exports, meeting international plant health regulations is crucial. The assessment APHIS is conducting will help ensure that Botswana’s citrus meets stringent U.S. standards. If approved, the U.S. market would present new opportunities for Botswana’s citrus industry.
Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.
APHIS releases pest risk assessment for citrus imports from Botswana
BOTSWANA – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has published a pest risk assessment (PRA) for fresh citrus imports from Botswana.
The report evaluates potential pest risks linked to importing lemons, grapefruits, mandarins, and sweet oranges into the United States from Botswana, aiming to address pest management and safety protocols.
APHIS has opened a 30-day consultation period, welcoming comments from stakeholders, industry partners, and the public. These comments will help shape the final decision on whether to allow these imports.
APHIS stated, “We encourage public input to ensure our evaluation considers all scientific and technical aspects.” Comments can be submitted via email, and the period remains open until November 4, 2024.
This consultation is an important step in determining whether citrus from Botswana meets U.S. regulatory requirements for import. The PRA can be accessed on APHIS’s Stakeholder Risk Assessment Consultation page.
Botswana’s citrus industry: A rising exporter
Botswana has made remarkable progress in citrus production, becoming a key player in the global market.
The Selebi-Phikwe Citrus Project, a major initiative covering more than 1,500 hectares, exports 70% of its produce, targeting international markets, including the Middle East, China, and the United States.
In 2024, Botswana exported over 3,500 tons of citrus, strengthening its economic position and contributing to job creation. The country is implementing strict protocols to ensure the quality and safety of its exports.
As part of these efforts, Botswana complies with international standards to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
One of the main challenges Botswana faces is the need to meet rigorous import regulations set by countries like the U.S., where pest control and disease prevention are top priorities.
APHIS’s pest risk assessment is an integral part of this process, ensuring that any potential risks to U.S. agriculture are thoroughly examined before trade is permitted.
With the country’s growing citrus exports, meeting international plant health regulations is crucial. The assessment APHIS is conducting will help ensure that Botswana’s citrus meets stringent U.S. standards. If approved, the U.S. market would present new opportunities for Botswana’s citrus industry.
Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.