The presence of fruit flies in any commodity exported by Fiji to New Zealand can be detrimental, also possibly affecting current bilateral quarantine agreements. Fiji’s Ministry of Agriculture and the Biosecurity Authority are keeping a close watch to ensure that fruit flies do not leave the nation’s shores. Fiji exports pawpaw, mangoes, breadfruit, and eggplant to NZ.
The Fijian fruit fly (Bactrocera passiflorae) and the Pacific fruit fly (Bactrocera xanthodes) if found in these commodities sent to New Zealand, will have severe repercussions.
Permanent Secretary for Agriculture Ritesh Dass says it is important that all necessary precautions are taken to prevent fruit fly presence in any export commodity. Dass says the treatment is available to ensure that these fruits are fly free before being sent off. He says the Ministry’s Fruit Fly Unit of the Crop Research Division is creating awareness programs on the pest as well as its management during field visits and agriculture shows.