Exemptions From Import Regulations for Specified Fruit, Vegetable and Specialty Crop Commodities

This rule finalizes, with modifications, two interim final rules which exempt imported fresh fruit, vegetable and specialty crop commodities from grade, size, quality, and maturity requirements if those commodities are to be used in certain specified outlets. The exemptions correspond to exemptions in effect for the same commodities regulated under Federal marketing orders. This rule also finalizes, with modifications, safeguard procedures which were added to import regulations to assure that imported fresh commodities are utilized only in such specified exempt outlets. This rule also deletes import requirements for Tokay grapes. This rule is implemented in accordance with section 8e of the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937 to make the import regulations more consistent with applicable domestic marketing order exemptions and with the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Exempt uses include, but are not limited to, processing, livestock feed, and donation to charity.