Importation of Fresh Unshu Oranges From the Republic of Korea Into the Continental United States

We are amending the regulations concerning the importation of citrus fruit to remove certain restrictions on the importation of Unshu oranges from the Republic of Korea that are no longer necessary. Specifically, we are removing requirements for the fruit to be grown in specified canker-free export areas and for joint inspection in the groves and packinghouses by the Government of the Republic of Korea and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. We are also amending the regulations to clarify that surface sterilization of the fruit must be conducted in accordance with 7 CFR part 305 and to expand the area in the continental United States where Unshu oranges from the Republic of Korea may be distributed. Finally, we are requiring that each shipment be accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate containing an additional declaration stating that the fruit was given the required surface sterilization and inspected and found free of Elsinoe australis. These changes will make the regulations concerning the importation of Unshu oranges from the Republic of Korea consistent with our domestic regulations concerning the interstate movement of citrus fruit from areas quarantined because of citrus canker.