Importation of Fruits and Vegetables

We are amending the fruits and vegetables regulations to list a number of fruits and vegetables from certain parts of the world as eligible, under specified conditions, for importation into the United States. All of the fruits and vegetables, as a condition of entry, will be inspected and subject to treatment at the port of first arrival as may be required by an inspector. In addition, some of the fruits and vegetables will be required to be treated or meet other special conditions. This action will provide the United States with additional types and sources of fruits and vegetables while continuing to protect against the introduction of quarantine pests through imported fruits and vegetables. We are also recognizing areas in several countries as free from certain fruit flies; amending the packing requirements for certain commodities; expanding locations in the northeastern United States where cold treatment can be conducted; updating and clarifying restrictions on the entry of fruits and vegetables; updating and clarifying permit procedures, including amendment, denial, or withdrawal of permits; requiring full disclosure of fruits and vegetables at the port of first arrival and clarifying the conditions under which they may be released for movement; and making other miscellaneous changes.