Exports to the Canary Islands were halted following an initial finding of Colorado potato beetle in Kent in 2023, causing the loss of a significant export market for some growers.
Defra confirmed the news of the changes to the restrictions, having worked closely with their counterparts in the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA) and the Canary Islands Inspectorate.
The pest is a major threat to potato crops as the adults and larvae feed on the foliage of potato and other plants in the nightshade family and can completely strip them of their leaves if left uncontrolled.
Eradication
The pest was declared eradicated late last year, following an extensive surveillance and eradication program – read NFU welcomes eradication of Colorado potato beetle.
Restrictions relating to packaging, labelling and detailed traceability of the producer (including identification at plot level), as well as other specific conditions such as restrictions relating to certain areas of origin, are no longer necessary.
Restrictions still in force
However, the requirement relating to cleaning of potatoes and the soil tolerance remains in force.
In particular, a maximum soil content of 1% continues to apply, as this is considered necessary to comply with the provisions of point 58.b of Part III of Annex IV to the Order of 12 March 1987, as well as to ensure that consignments are free from soil and associated harmful organisms.
