kiwifruit generic credit Luc Viatour

Peru’s National Agriculture Health Service, Senasa, has published new phytosanitary requirements for imports of kiwifruit plants from the US, according to a report in Andina.com.pe.

The move, which comes in response to interest from growers, paves the way for commercial production of kiwifruit, boosting Peru’s rapidly expanding fresh produce export offer.

The rules state that imported plants must be accompanied by an import license issued by Senasa prior to shipment from the country of origin, stating that the plants have been officially inspected and cleared for shipment.

According to the regulations, plants must be shipped in new pots and be free from soil and other foreign materials. Finally, the importer should sign up to a register of importers that states where the plant was grown.