Seminar on US Import Regulations for Fresh Fruit & Vegetables got going at the Garraway Hotel on Friday

​A seminar organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture, on US import regulations for fresh fruits & vegetables got going at the Garraway Hotel on Friday.
 
Agriculture Ministry PS Harold Guiste said the seminar will focus mainly on procedures to regulate exports of fresh produce to the United States, port entry requirements into the United States, plant quarantine issues, and the processing and packaging of fresh produce designed for export”.
 
Guiste noted that due to the increased international travel & trade, emphasis must be placed on regulation of import & export commodities, so as to prevent the transfer, establishment and spread of agricultural pests and disease, which can adversely affect and actually hurt agriculture in the importing countries”.
 
Guiste believes this seminar will assist in strengthening Dominica’s plant health and food safety system. He further noted, that Dominica will make every effort to comply with all protocols and requirements, and to maintain good standing in its trading relations with the United States.
 
Meanwhile, Trade Director Mathan Walter wants farmers, producers, and hucksters to ensure that they adhere to international quality standards, in order to reap the benefits of the export markets.