The Ministry of Agricultural Development (Mida), via Resolution N °-OAL-135-DM-2015, banned the entry and transfer of imported plant products of potatoes and onions for human consumption in the areas of agricultural production.
The ban was implemented to prevent the introduction of pests, of quarantine and non-quarantine importance, into the areas where potatoes and onions are cultivated, as well as to avoid negative effects on domestic production.
The resolution states that, if proven, there will be sanctions for the producers that use imported products as planting materials.
Law 47 of July 9, 1996 establishes fines for those producers who mobilize plants, plant products and plant protection supplies without permission. Said fines range between $100 dollars and $100,000 dollars, depending on the severity of the offence.
The resolution also prohibits the deposition of debris and waste of plant material for human consumption in areas that are dedicated to the production of potato and onion.
According to the director of Agriculture of the Mida, Moises Batista, this was done to avoid saturating the production areas and as a safeguard.
Meanwhile, the President of the Association of the Producers Community of the Highlands, Augusto Reyes, said they would conduct training programs for the farmers so they can comply with the newly approved rules.
