EXPORT OF APPLES DISCUSSED AT THE TARGI KIELCE'S HORTI-TECH

Later this year, the first batches of Polish apples can be shipped to China. This and many
other topics will be discussed at the 9th Conference on Fruit Varieties held on 19
November within the scope of the November's Fruit and Vegetable Technology Ex

A lecture on "Apples exports to  the Republic of China - phytosanitary requirements under the Protocol's stipulations" will be given by  Agnieszka Sahajdak, Head of Phytosanitary Supervision and International Cooperation - Division at the Main Inspectorate of Plant Health and Seed Protection. It is estimated that tens of thousands of tonnes of Polish apples will be exported this year. Two years after of the procedure initiation, Polish apples are exported to China; this is a real success.  Imports conditions determination takes the average of 5-6 years since the application submission in relations with the Middle Kingdom. However this procedure may take up to ten years (negotiation with France on kiwifruit import have continued for 15 years).

Healthy, good quality, safe for consumers - this is how Polish apples were described bu the Chinese inspectors who controlled selected orchards and packing facilities. For many apples producers, this positive assessment may be a company-saving message.

- The Inspectors of the General Office for Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine of the Peoples Republic of China (AQSIA) visited the 4 selected  orchards  3 and packing facilities in three provinces: Kujawsko-Pomorskie, Łódzkie and Mazowieckie (the list of entities which want to export aples to China includes other 453  orchards  and the 136 packing facilities). The initial assessment is positive   recapitulates Agnieszka Sahajdak, Head of Phytosanitary Supervision and International Cooperation - Divission at the Main Inspectorate of Plant Health and Seed Protection. - Chinese delegates were impressed with Poland's long traditions in  apple growing, technology standards used for cultivation as well as the integrated pest management methods used in apple production  in Poland. It was emphasized that the methods used by  Polish fruit growers  have a positive impact on the environment and  fruit quality owing to reduction of  plant protection  agents. They also indicated a few elements that will help to strengthen the existing system. On October 28, Poland notified China about successful implementation of guidelines - adds director Sahajdak.

 On November 9, the Chinese informed about the opening of the market for Polish apples. This and other markets ready for  Polish fruit  will be discussed  during the HORTI-TECH Expo held in Kielce from 18 to 19 November.