Biosecurity New Zealand has placed restrictions on importing tomato seeds from Australia after a harmful virus was discovered at two South Australian farms.
The tomato brown rugose fruit virus affects tomatoes, capsicums, and chillies, causing damage to the plants, but it does not harm humans. This virus, which was first found in the Middle East, has never been detected in New Zealand.
Although New Zealand currently imports tomatoes only from Queensland, Australia, Biosecurity New Zealand is taking extra precautions. All imported seeds from Australia must now be tested for the virus before entering the country. Additionally, tomato imports from all Australian states except Queensland have been temporarily suspended.
Stuart Anderson, Biosecurity New Zealand’s deputy director general, urged growers to stay alert and report any unusual problems with their tomatoes to the pests and diseases hotline.
Barry O’Neil, chairperson of TomatoesNZ, expressed concerns about the severe impact the virus could have on New Zealand’s tomato and capsicum industries, warning that it could lead to significant crop losses. He emphasised the importance of keeping the virus out of the country and advised growers to maintain strict hygiene practices to protect their farms.
