USDA tightens import rules against chrysanthemum white rust

USDA tightens import rules against chrysanthemum white rust The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has developed specific import rules for cut flowers from countries where chrysanthemum white rust is known to exist.
   To be eligible for importation, the flowers must be grown in a registered production site and accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate or equivalent documentation issued by the national plant protection organization of the origin country. The certificate must also contain an additional declaration stating that the place of production as well as the shipment have been inspected and found free of chrysanthemum white rust.
   The USDA also requires box labels and other documents accompanying shipments of cut flowers be marked with the registered production site’s identity. In addition, USDA-authorized inspectors must be granted access to the production sites and other areas needed to monitor the chrysanthemum white rust-free status of the site.
   “Cut flowers that do not meet these conditions will be refused entry into the United States,” the USDA said. The new requirements take effect on May 3.