Fruit and veg importers say inspection changes will increase risk

Changes to overseas inspection services have horticultural importers concerned about potential biosecurity issues for Australian consumers.

The importers are currently seeking a meeting with the Federal Government about the changes after the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources told them that by 2020 it will phase out inspectors working overseas to clear fruit and vegetables and other foods that are sent to Australia.

Joseph Saina, deputy chair of the Australian Horticultural Exporters Association and a director with AS Barr Group wholesale import and exporters at Brisbane Markets, told ABC Rural the changes would mean produce must be inspected on arrival.

He said there would be more expense, delayed deliveries, and a threat to biosecurity in Australia.

"For more than 15 years, the department has undertaken offshore pre-clearance inspection to clear imported goods to Australia from countries such as USA, China, New Zealand [and South Korea].

“This has facilitated trade until now," Saina said. "What their intention is that over the next couple of years, by 2020, the services will be withdrawn.

"That will mean those goods will be exported to Australia and subject to inspection in Australia instead of offshore. That will cause us problems both logistically and financially, and from a pest risk management
perspective."