Disease fears over US apple imports

The Tasmanian government and the head of the state’s peak fruit-growing body worry about the biosecurity risks and impact that US apples, if imported into Australia, could have on the industry.

The US and Australian governments are reportedly close to finalising the arrangements to allow American apples to be imported into the country.

But people like Fruit Growers Tasmania CEO Peter Cornish worry that diseases such as fire blight could enter the country via US apples.

“It’s a pretty long bow for the United States to be pushing others about open trade with what they’ve been doing in recent times.”

Mr Cornish said Tasmania could protect itself from fire blight and other biosecurity risks.

“We have the secondary backup of Biosecurity Tasmania.

“So if they are not convinced in terms of the additional risks that might be posed by having US apples, they can step in and put in regulations.”

Both Australia and the US currently have an oversupply of apples.

“Importing apples from the US to Australia would just exacerbate the oversupply situation.

“It would put great economic pressure on apple growers.”

Tasmanian Trade Minister Guy Barnett was worried about the impact of US apple imports on the state’s industry.

“While no final decision has been made, news of the federal government seeking to allow US apples into the country is deeply concerning,” Mr Barnett said.

“It makes little sense to import fruit we grow exceptionally well here, particularly where there are concerns about fire blight and other biosecurity risks.

“Tasmania’s clean, premium reputation is one of our greatest trading strengths and must not be put at risk.

“I encourage Tasmanians always to check where their produce comes from and back our outstanding local farmers.”

A Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry spokesperson said that even if the US gained market access to import apples to Australia, it would not guarantee trade will occur.

"Any future trade would depend on commercial decisions made by exporters and importers.

"The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry continues to engage with the United States on Australia’s biosecurity requirements for any potential future trade in fresh apples.

"The Australian Government remains firmly committed to upholding Australia's biosecurity status and protecting our agricultural industries from pest and disease threats.

"Australia accepts imports only when we are confident the risks of pests and diseases can be managed to achieve Australia's appropriate level of protection."