The US could re-open its doors to Argentinean fresh lemons in 2009, provided certain market access and phytosanitary procedures are carried out in the coming months, according to a local Argentinean news report.
Roberto Sánchez Loria, chairman of the Tucumán Citrus Association (ATC) has refuted claims made by Argentinean ambassador to the US, Héctor Timerman, that a deal would be announced in September, saying instead there is still much paperwork to be completed.
The US still has 60 days to publish a new protocol, according to Mr Sánchez Loria, which will define the phytosanitary requirements for Argentina’s access to the US lemon market.
“The new protocol, in principle, is far more concrete and consistent than the previous deal which was approved in 2000/01,” Mr Sánchez Loria said.
“Many demands have already been met and there is a good chance that the new protocol will be approved, which could pave the way for access next year.”
Argentinean lemon shipments to the US were suspended in 2001 due to phytosanitary reasons just one year after the South American nation gained entry to the market.
During the last year of shipments, Argentina exported some 19,484 tonnes of lemons, grapefruit and oranges to the US.
