The Plant Protection and Quarantine Agency of Uzbekistan has reported the detection of a quarantine pest in a batch of mandarins imported from Pakistan, raising concerns over the integrity of phytosanitary documentation accompanying such imports.
The agency revealed that more than 30 phytosanitary certificates issued for products imported from Pakistan were fraudulent. This issue surfaced amid increased citrus demand during Uzbekistan’s winter season, with Pakistan being a significant exporter to the country.
A recent inspection uncovered a pest infestation in mandarins transported in 26 units through the "Ayrtom" border checkpoint. Samples from the batch were analyzed at the agency's Central Phytosanitary Laboratory, confirming the presence of the "Red Pomeranes" shield—a pest known to harm various fruits, including lemons, dates, apples, and grapes, by feeding on their sap.
The pest is predominantly found in regions such as Pakistan, Afghanistan, and several African countries, including Egypt and South Africa.
When contacted by Plant Protection and Quarantine Agency, Pakistan's quarantine service denied issuing phytosanitary certificates for mandarins exported to Uzbekistan in December. Investigations revealed that these certificates were counterfeit, verified through the electronic document exchange system established between the two countries.
The agency has now mandated the verification of all phytosanitary certificates for quarantined imports from Pakistan via its "E-Fitouz" automated information system. Only products confirmed in Pakistan’s electronic database will be permitted entry.
As a precaution, Uzbekistan has temporarily suspended the issuance of import quarantine permits for mandarins from Pakistan.
The agency emphasized the importance of partnering with reliable foreign suppliers, urging entrepreneurs to exercise caution.
"We recommend that you cooperate with reliable enterprises from foreign countries in the import of citrus, berries, and other types of fruits and vegetables," the agency stated.
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