Alerts

The purpose of this notification is to advise stakeholders that new import conditions are available for Brassica rapa, Eruca vesicaria and Raphanus sativus seed, that are imported for sprouting or micro-green production for human consumption.

Key requirements:

Under the new conditions, seed imported for sprouting or micro-green production must be germinated at a class 3 approved arrangement site prior to release from biosecurity control.

Importers are reminded that a valid import permit issued by the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment is required, prior to goods being imported into Australian territory.

More information about approved arrangements are available on the department’s website at http://www.agriculture.gov.au/import/arrival/arrangements.

Background:

Following on from the department’s final review of import conditions for brassicaceous vegetable seeds for sowing, additional biosecurity measures are being applied to imported seed species; Brassica rapa (e.g. turnip and bok choy), Raphanus sativus (e.g. radish) and Eruca vesicaria (e.g. rocket) to manage the risk of fungal pathogens (Colletotrichum higginsianum and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. raphani) that are of biosecurity concern to Australia.

Brassica rapa, Eruca vesicaria and Raphanus sativus seeds for sprouting or micro-green production for human consumption are exempt from mandatory treatment measures, if imported directly for germination at a production facility operated under an approved arrangement.

Further Information:

Please contact Plant Import Operations on 1800 900 090 or email imports@agriculture.gov.au (please title the subject line of the email with ‘Tier 2 - Brassicaceous vegetable seeds import conditions’).