ASTA Secures Reductions in Brazil’s Proposed Phytosanitary Requirements for Begonia Seeds

Following ASTA’s technical comments, Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) agreed to remove more than half of the pests from its proposed phytosanitary requirements for begonia seeds, reducing potential testing and certification burdens for the U.S. seed industry. In its official response, MAPA acknowledged ASTA’s contribution to the revisions, which addressed concerns about the scientific justification for the proposed measures. MAPA also agreed to remove 15 pests from the broader proposal covering begonia propagative material.

This achievement highlights the value of ASTA’s technical expertise and advocacy in addressing unnecessary trade barriers. ASTA will continue working with trading partners to promote science-based phytosanitary requirements and protect market access for the U.S. seed industry.

For questions about ASTA’s phytosanitary advocacy or to get involved, contact ASTA’s Dr. Martha Malapi.