NZ suspends capsicum, tomato exports
Updated
New Zealand has suspended exports of tomatoes and capsicums, after a debilitating bacterium was found in three North Island hothouses.
The Ministry for Agriculture and Forestry, says it's imposing the suspension as a precautionary measure until more information about the bacterium is known, and says the ban will stay in place until further notice.
In a statement, the Ministry says the bacterium's discovery could significantly impact New Zealand's export markets.
Total tomato exports are valued at $US5.5 million, while capsicums are worth $26 million.
Australia is the largest importer of the both tomatoes and capsicum, while Japan, the Pacific Islands, United Arab Emirates and Hong Kong are other capsicum markets.
