Vietnam moves to address hurdles, resume pomelo exports to Australia

On September 16, Vietnam's agriculture authorities announced a temporary six-month suspension of pomelo exports to Australia due to biosecurity issues identified during inspections. The Plant Production and Protection Department disclosed the suspension details at a press briefing organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.

Deputy Director Nghiem Quang Tuan of the Department explained that an Australian delegation visited Vietnam in August to inspect pomelo growing areas and packing facilities approved for export to Australia. The inspections revealed several shortcomings in meeting Australia's import requirements.

Australia had suspended imports of Vietnamese pomelo since April after around 70% of shipments inspected upon arrival in the country showed symptoms associated with plant pests. On September 14, Australia notified Vietnam that it would temporarily halt imports while conducting further reviews and assessments. The suspension began on September 15 and is expected to last for six months, potentially extended if corrective measures are not taken.

Vietnam's Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has instructed relevant businesses and agencies to cease exporting fresh pomelo to Australia during the suspension period. The ministry has also initiated an urgent review of all growing areas and packing facilities with export codes for the Australian market.

Deputy Minister Dang Ngoc Diep stated that the temporary suspension targets specific biosecurity requirements for the Australian market. Vietnamese pomelo exports to other countries remain unaffected, according to Diep.