USDA APHIS Amends Import Requirements for Citrus from Australia in Federal Order

Effective 20 August 2021, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is revising the entry requirements for citrus fruit from the Districts of Riverina and Sunraysia in Australia. This revision is necessary because both Riverina and Sunraysia no longer meet the requirements to be considered fruit fly free areas for Queensland fruit fly (Bactrocera tryoni or QFF). This action applies to the importation of the fresh citrus species named in this Federal order, when produced in either district, as published on the USDA APHIS website on 20 August 2021 (https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/planthealth/import-information/federal-import-orders

APHIS is now requiring in transit cold treatment for the aforementioned citrus varieties when originating in regulated areas for QFF, including the Districts of Riverina and Sunraysia. APHIS will require treatment of citrus prior to entering the United States. All fresh citrus consignments must be accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate issued by the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) of Australia with the additional declaration stating the citrus fruit was produced in Riverina, Riverland, Sunraysia; the inland region of Queensland, the regions comprising Western Australia, or the shires of Bourke or Narromine within New South Wales District.