Jan 17, 2017Interim steps create additional fresh potato access to Mexico
On January 13, SAGARPA, the Agriculture Department of Mexico, published on their website the Pest Risk Assessment for U.S. potatoes and the Requirement Sheet for the import of U.S. potatoes beyond the 26-kilometer border zone. SAGARPA and APHIS must still clearly define the process by which imports will be allowed and exports executed. Growers and shippers in the U.S. and importers and retailers in Mexico will need to consult with APHIS and SAGARPA respectively to understand the exact requirements. It is also still being determined if any previous legal actions taken by the Mexican growers will prevent actual imports.
The publication of this new set of rules to facilitate the movement of U.S. fresh potatoes to Mexico is an important and very positive step in a 15-year process to gain access to all areas of Mexico.
It will be necessary for SAGARPA to publish a permanent decree to formalize the expanded market access. Publication of that decree should occur in 60 to 90 days. Until the publication of that document the requirements published January 13, will govern potato shipments to Mexico beyond the 26-kilometer zone.
Growers and shippers in the U.S. should also be aware that interruptions of potato trade to Mexico could be possible if the filing of any additional lawsuits results in injunctions to stop implementation of the requirements.
Source: Joint Update from Potatoes USA and the National Potato Council
