The Horticultural Trades Association has responded to reports that the UK had halted the imports of poinsettias.
An HTA spokesperson said: “We understand that the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) placed a temporary hold on some consignments of Bemisia tabaci (tobacco whitefly) hosts, which includes poinsettia, due to a number of incorrect Additional Declarations on phytosanitary certificates.
“Defra has advised that the APHA will be releasing the consignments currently being held – provided that, on inspection, they are confirmed as pest-free – in order to negate impacts on industry and to avoid impacting the Christmas trade.
“Defra has confirmed that it is engaging with the Dutch National Plant Protection Organisation to provide guidance, with a view to avoiding a similar situation occurring in the future. Defra has advised that the correct Additional Declarations will be required for future consignments, in line with usual practice.
“Defra will update in due course the published guidance on Additional Declarations at: Requirement for Additional Declarations (ADs) on Phytosanitary Certificate (PCs) - UK Plant Health Information Portal (defra.gov.uk).”