New Zealand has temporarily banned the importation of some Australian produce after a plant virus was spotted on a batch of Australian watermelons. Authorities confirmed the detection of Cucumber Green Mottle Mosaic Virus (CGMMV) on watermelons produced in the Northern Territory a fortnight ago. As a result, they opted to suspend some imports from August 20 onwards.

CGMMV is a soil-borne plant virus that affects cucurbits such as watermelons, pumpkins, zucchinis and cucumbers. It is not harmful to humans.

The plant virus was first detected in the Northern Territorys Katherine region back in 2014. At that time it decimated the lucrative watermelon industry, costing an estimated $60 million.

The virus has recently been discovered on farms in Queensland and Western Australia. It is extremely difficult to eradicate from the soil once it is present.

As reported by dailymail.co.uk, New Zealand is Australia’s third largest market for melons, so it is keen to restore trade links. The Commonwealth Departments are working together to find a resolution.

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