A new pilot programme with the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is set to allow Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) to facilitate the delivery of fresh fruit from South America to the southeast of the country, according to a report from Savannahnow.com.
“South American fresh fruit destined to the southeast market has traditionally been shipped to northern US ports,” said GPA executive director Curtis Foltz. “Delivery through Savannah means fruits won’t have to be trucked as far to reach southeastern markets, allowing fresher offerings for stores and longer shelf-life for consumers.”
Starting in September, the Port of Savannah will begin handling South American fruit that has undergone cold treatment to prevent transmission of agricultural pests.
The programme will see citrus, grapes and blueberries chilled for at least 17 days prior to entry to protect against fruit flies. The process will be done in producing countries, including Peru, Chile and Brazil, or at transshipment points such as Panama.
“Bringing cold treatment to the Port of Savannah is just one example of USDA’s commitment to facilitating trade while protecting American agriculture,' said Osama El-Lissy, the USDA's deputy administrator for plant protection and quarantine.
In addition to faster delivery in the southeast, the programme is also expected to reduce emissions and transport costs, and could lead to lower prices for consumers.
“We look forward to a successful pilot, leading to a permanent programme expanded to include new countries and more commodities,” said Cliff Pyron, Georgia Ports’ chief commercial officer. “Because the South American growing season is opposite that of the US, these shipments are vital for keeping fresh produce on shelves year-round.”
Garden City Terminal in Savannah has a refrigerated container capacity of more than 2,600 containers.
