Online Reporter
Precious Manomano
Herald Reporter
Zimbabwe and China have established comprehensive phytosanitary measures for the export of fresh blueberries, marking a significant milestone for the country’s horticulture sector.
The protocol outlines stringent requirements that must be met to ensure compliance with Chinese laws and health standards, paving the way for Zimbabwean blueberries to enter one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.
In a statement, the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development noted that blueberries exported from Zimbabwe must adhere to all applicable Chinese phytosanitary regulations.
“This protocol pertains only to phytosanitary requirements. Other laws, regulations, and standards regarding human health, such as China’s food safety laws, may also apply,” the ministry stated.
Central to this protocol is the registration of orchards, packing houses, and cold treatment facilities. These establishments must be registered and approved by both the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development and the General Administration of Customs of China. The registration process ensures that any non-compliant blueberries can be traced back to their source, enhancing accountability in export practices.
Under the supervision of MLAFWRD, all registered orchards are required to implement Good Agricultural Practices. This includes maintaining sanitary conditions and promptly removing dropped fruits. Integrated Pest Management programmes must also be established, focusing on pest monitoring and control to minimise the occurrence of quarantine pests that concern Chinese authorities.
“Orchards intending to export blueberries to China must carry out pest monitoring by trained technicians,” the ministry emphasised. Records of pest monitoring and control must be maintained for at least two years and should include detailed information about monitoring times, pest species, and control measures taken.
Effective management of fruit flies is also a critical aspect of the protocol. Growers are required to install traps and use protein baits to monitor and control fruit fly populations. Authorised cold treatment or fumigation must be conducted to eliminate any fruit flies prior to export.
The specific parameters for cold treatment include maintaining temperatures of 1.11 °C for 15 days, 1.67 °C for 17 days, or 2.22 °C for 21 days. In addition to cold treatment, blueberries destined for airfreight must undergo Methyl bromide fumigation, with precise dosage and temperature regulations outlined to ensure effectiveness.
Packaging standards are equally stringent. Blueberries must be sorted and packed to exclude any pests or rotten fruit, using clean, hygienic materials that comply with Chinese phytosanitary requirements. Each package must be labelled clearly, indicating the fruit name, exporting country, and that the blueberries are free from quarantine pests of concern.
A Phytosanitary Certificate must accompany each shipment, detailing compliance with the established protocol.
The certificate must include declarations regarding cold treatment and fumigation, ensuring all necessary information is readily available for inspection.
Upon arrival in China, all shipments will undergo rigorous checks by customs to verify compliance with documentation and conduct inspections.
“If any quarantine pests or non-compliance with food safety standards are detected, the consignment may be returned or destroyed,” the ministry warned, highlighting the importance of adherence to these requirements.
This agreement not only opens new markets for Zimbabwean blueberries but also enhances the country’s reputation as a reliable supplier.
With projected blueberry production expected to rise significantly, the Horticultural Development Council views this as an opportunity for local growers to position Zimbabwe as a leading exporter in Africa.
“This agreement is a milestone for Zimbabwe’s horticulture sector,” said HDC Chief Executive Mrs Linda Nielsen. “What is needed now is collaboration to design policies that increase investment and boost production to meet required volumes.”
As Zimbabwe prepares to expand its presence in the global blueberry market, the successful implementation of these phytosanitary measures will be critical in ensuring the quality and safety of its exports.
