APHIS Allows Imports of Persimmons With Calyxes From Japan

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service will allow importation of fresh persimmons with calyxes from Japan into the U.S., it said in a final rule. Conditions of entry will include orchard certification, pest control and post-harvest safeguards, as well as fruit culling, traceback and sampling. APHIS is also requiring a phytosanitary certificate from the Japanese government declaring the persimmons were inspected and found free of pests. The final rule takes effect Oct. 12.