National Agriculture Quarantine and Inspection Authority says PNG made, Ox and Palm canned corn beef meets international biosecurity requirements.
NAQIA managing director Joel Alu stated in a statement that an Import Risk Assessment (IRA) carried out by Fiji’s quarantine in 2004 (Then known as Ministry of Agriculture, Sugar and Land Resettlement) proved that the canned meat was safe and in line with its biosecurity measures.
“This was done in 2004. The outcome of this IRA process had been conveyed back to PNG and approval granted by the Fijian competent authority for Ox and Palm corned beef to be allowed market access in Fiji.
“Apparently, a further import restriction was placed on PNG Ox and Palm by Fiji around 2008. The basis of that restriction remains unknown.
“The restriction was lifted in March 2012 when the Fijian Government lifted the restrictions on PNG corned beef.
“Therefore, from March 2012 to present time, there should be no biosecurity (animal health) or food safety (public health) reason for the restriction of Ox and Palm corned beef from PNG to Fiji, either in commercial quantities for sale in the Fijian retail market, or allowable quantities carried in personal luggage of travelers for personal consumption,” Alu said.
He added that NAQIA is seeking formal communication with their Fiji counterparts to provide specific technical basis for considering that Ox and Palm, including Trukai Rice and Paradise biscuits present unacceptable biosecurity of food safety threats to Fiji.
Meanwhile, the ultimatum given by Trade, Commerce and Industry Minister Richard Maru for Fiji to give reasons and uplift the ban lapsed two days ago.
The Minister who was in his electorate when contacted by Loop PNG said an announcement of the PNG Government stand will be announced next week and declined to comment further.
Minister Maru earlier stated that if PNG do not adhere to the instructions issues, its Melanesian trading partner will take drastic action by banning import of Fiji made products.
This could affect Fiji because the trade imbalance favors Fiji.
Fiji exports over K58 million products to PNG, While the latter export worth K4 million.