Quarentine-A Client Oriented Approach.

Abstract

The common practice with the international movement of plant produce is for certifying officials to determine what the pests of quarantine concern should be for the importing country and certify produce for export accordingly. It is anticipated that with the successful conclusion of the Uruguay GATT Round, importing countries may attempt to use quarantine as a technical barrier to trade and so in order to prevent this, a series of rules have been developed (FAO Guidelines) for importing countries to adhere to. Such rules would require the importing country to determine which pests associated with the produce would be of quarantine concern and justify any phytosanitary measures required. This implies that the exporting country needs to develop communication systems to ascertain what these pests are and develop systems to ensure that the exported produce meets the importing requirements. It is recognized that importing countries have a choice of suppliers and all things being equal, the supply country that can most effectively and efficiently meet the needs of the buyer should capture the ongoing market. Quality assurance systems are seen as a tool whereby produce can be prepared to meet the stated plant quarantine requirements of the importing country. Such systems should start in the field and involve producers, packers, exporters and government officials.