Import health standards changes imminent

Changes to import health standards have been mooted for some time, but it is believed the current infestations of BMSB and YSSB have initiated immediate action. VIA (the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association) has confirmed its support in ensuring that New Zealand’s biosecurity is the bottom line.

Chief executive, David Vinsen, who contacted Autofile earlier this morning, says: “The absolute bottom line for us is to ensure biosecurity is maintained and that the future of New Zealand’s primary production is not at risk through the importation of vehicles.

“We are working closely with the MPI to find a suitable solution and a meeting will be held this morning to further examine possible solutions. These may include freezing. The bugs are extreme-temperature intolerant, so either heating or freezing are options we are looking into. There will be a trial conducted to assess this imminently with the hope that treatment will follow immediately afterwards. “We are committed to finding a solution and, to this end, VIA will be taking the lead on behalf of our industry.”