US ruling could affect Australian citrus industry

US ruling could affect Australian citrus industry

06 September 2018

On 9 August 2018, the United States Federal Appeals Court ruled that all chlorpyrifos (Lorsban®) residue limits will be banned in the USA within 60 days. In effect, this means any producer supplying food for consumption in the USA cannot use chlorpyrifos.

Australian citrus growers who grow fruit for export to the USA need to be aware of and respond to this as the process unfolds.

The USA currently sits among Australia’s top ten citrus export markets.

However, Citrus Australia Market Access Manager David Daniels added that there is an appeal processes underway in the USA so the situation may yet change.

“Irrespective of the outcomes in the USA, chlorpyrifos is currently under review by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) and their report on that review is now overdue,” said David. “We expect that the USA decision will impact the findings coming from the APVMA.”

Chlorpyrifos is an important pest management tool in Australia and is used widely. Citrus Australia will continue to work with industry, regulators, Hort Innovation and product registrants to examine all options, including alternative crop protection products to help growers manage pests effectively and access export markets.

“At this stage, we are unable to provide any further advice, but we will keep the industry informed of any developments as they come to light,” said David.