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November 8, 2002
USDA Announced Availability of Pest Risk Assessment for the Imports of Unshu Oranges from Korea
On November 4, 2002, USDA announced that they had prepared a pest risk assessment (PRA) for the importation of unshu oranges from Korea into U.S. citrus-producing states. Currently, unshu oranges from Korea are allowed in the United States/areas except for American Samoa, Arizona, California, Florida, Louisiana, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, Texas, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Korean officials had, for a number of years, sought to gain access to the other U.S. states. Reports indicate that there is a niche market for unshus in, especially, California, where a large number of Koreans live. In order to be considered, any comments to the PRA need to be received on or before January 6, 2003.
Washington’s Increased Production of Non-Traditional Apple Varieties to Boost Demand
The 2002/03 Washington apple crop is expected to continue to shift away from the traditional and widely grown Red and Golden Delicious varieties. The enhanced mix of varieties, combined with a larger crop and lower carry-in supplies from last season will more than likely boost the state’s apple sales and improve the situation of the domestic industry. In response to changes in U.S. consumer preferences, apple growers in Washington increased planting of non-traditional varieties including Fuji, Gala, Pink Lady, McIntosh, Empire, Cameo, and Braeburn. U.S. exports, which in 2001/02 totaled nearly $370 million, could also benefit from the changing variety production trends. About 40 percent of U.S. annual apple exports are shipped to Latin America. Asia accounts for about 35 percent, and the Middle East and Europe for about 5 percent each. Canada alone accounts for about 15 percent of U.S. annual apple shipments.
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