Importers of produce from around the world have been warned by the Bio Security Authority of Fiji to ensure that products brought into the country are of a standard quality.

BAF chief executive officer Elvis Silvestrini, says they are addressing the issue of low quality of goods imported in the country.

This is amid growing complaints by consumers of low quality produce. One of these he highlighted was the poor quality of potatoes imported to Fiji.

Silvestrini says they are now checking every bag of potatoes and not only 660 units as was the practice in the past.

“All consignments of potatoes are withheld and checked 100 per cent rather than the normal required inspection of 600 units only,” he said.

“Importers of the consignments found not meeting the BAF import conditions have been asked by BAF to have their consignments treated before we release them.”

He added that the markets and shops have also been watched by officers and have requested retailers to remove potatoes which were rotten or of sub-standard quality.

“We are also working with our counterpart in New Zealand including the New Zealand Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (NZMAF)- and the importers to ensure bio – security concerns are addressed and that the import conditions for potatoes are adhered to.

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