South Africa Grants Key Exemptions for U.S. Cucurbit Seed Imports

There has been positive progress regarding South Africa’s proposed phytosanitary requirements for the importation of Cucumis spp., Citrullus spp., and Cucurbita spp. seed from the United States. Working closely with USDA, ASTA submitted comments expressing concern that the proposed requirements would negatively impact seed trade between the United States and South Africa. As a result of these collaborative efforts, South Africa has adopted the following exemptions: 

• Seed harvested before the implementation date will be exempt from the new requirements. 

• Small lots of seed intended for breeding, research, and development will also be exempt from the standard import requirements. 

This outcome reflects the strong partnership between ASTA, USDA, and industry stakeholders in advocating for practical, science-based phytosanitary measures that support international seed trade and protect market access for U.S. seed companies.  

For more information about this issue, contact Dr. Martha Malapi, ASTA Senior Director, Seed Health & Trade at mmalapi@betterseed.org.