APHIS Proposes to Relax Restrictions on Oranges from Japan

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service proposed the removal of import restrictions on Unshu oranges from Japan, it said in a notice. "We propose to remove requirements for the fruit to be grown in specified canker-free export areas with buffer zones and for joint inspection in the groves and packinghouses" by Japan and APHIS, it said. "We would also clarify that surface sterilization of the fruit must be conducted in accordance with our regulations" and require that each shipment be accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate saying that the fruit was given the required surface sterilization, it said. The proposed changes would be consistent with domestic regulations for the interstate movement of citrus fruit from areas quarantined because of citrus canker, said APHIS. Comments are due June 9.