In February, citrus shipments from third countries such as Egypt and Turkey were once again rejected at the border due to the presence of pests and active substances not authorised in the European Union. Beyond the headline, this news once again raises a key issue for our sector: the need for reciprocity in production conditions.
At Cocalni, we believe it is important to inform our members and the sector about these types of situations, as they directly influence competitiveness, phytosanitary safety, and market stability.
What exactly happened?
According to La Unió Llauradora, six shipments of citrus fruits from Egypt and Turkey were rejected at the border in February. Phytosanitary controls detected non-compliance related to pests and the use of active substances not permitted in the European Union.
These rejections occur within the framework of the European rapid alert system for food and feed, which reports incidents detected in imported products.
You can read the full original article at the following link: launio.org
Why it is important for Valencian farmers
Incidents such as these reinforce a long-standing demand from the citrus sector: the same requirements for everyone.
European farmers work under increasingly strict regulations on plant health, the environment and food safety. The use of active substances is heavily regulated and controls are constant. However, when products from third countries enter the market that do not always meet the same conditions, this creates a situation of unfair competition.
Furthermore, there is an added risk: the possible entry of pests that could affect our farms. Prevention is key to protecting our plots and ensuring the continuity of cultivation.
News such as this reminds us that the future of the countryside depends on unity within the sector, strict compliance with regulations and the defence of fair conditions in international trade.
Because behind every orange there is much more than just a product: there is work, investment and commitment to the region.
