Viruses detected in tomato shipment from Morocco blocked by Russian agency

The Russian Agricultural Oversight Agency announced the detection of two plant viruses in an 8-ton shipment of fresh tomatoes originating from Morocco and Turkey. The viruses identified were Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV) and Pepino Mosaic Virus.

According to the agency, a phytosanitary inspection conducted on December 24 covered three tomato consignments totaling 33 tons, which had entered the region from Morocco and Turkey accompanied by phytosanitary certificates.

«To prevent the spread of plant diseases within the territory of the Russian Federation, the import of the infected products totaling 8 tons was prohibited», the agency said, adding that the remaining virus-free shipments were cleared for entry.