The Plant Quarantine Unit in the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands is imploring the public to adhere to guidelines governing the importation of plants, fruits, vegetables and cut flowers to prevent entry of the citrus greening disease into the island.

Chief Plant Quarantine Officer, Fitzroy White, explained that these products were potential carriers of harmful pests and diseases, such as the citrus greening disease, which can decimate the agricultural industry, cause deforestation and loss of income for thousands of farmers.

Yellow dragon disease

Citrus greening, also called Huanglongbing or yellow dragon disease, is one of the more serious diseases affecting citrus plants. This bacterial disease is thought to have originated in China in the early 1900s, and has been present in Florida since 1998.

The bacteria itself is not harmful to humans but the disease has affected trees in several places, including Asia, Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and Brazil.

Mr. White pointed out that the main items confiscated at the island's ports as a precaution were herbs and spices, such as onions, fruits (grapes), vegetables, plants, cut flowers, ground provisions (yam), and miscellaneous items, such as coconuts. He added that these commodities were confiscated and destroyed because they violated importation guidelines.

Growing concerns

Mr. White explained that the unit rarely had a problem with commercial importers, as the products were usually imported from controlled and monitored farms. However, he noted that there were growing concerns about small gardeners and collectors who imported prohibited items.

"Any agricultural item being imported into Jamaica must be accompanied by a valid import permit issued by the Plant Quarantine Unit," he emphasised.

All persons interested in becoming legal importers of agricultural produce are being encouraged to contact the Plant Quarantine Unit for a list of guidelines and stipulations that must be followed.