Amended requirements for import of Mexican fresh figs in the US

To prevent the introduction of the Mediterranean black fig fly (MBFF), USDA-APHIS implemented restrictions on all commercial consignments of fresh figs imported from Mexico effective September 15, 2020.

The black fig fly, Silba adipata McAlpine, is a pest of wild and cultivated figs, The female possesses a long ovipositor with which it deposits its eggs in small groups. Unripe figs as well as ripening ones can be attacked. Infestation of unripe figs usually results in premature fruit drop.

APHIS is taking this action in response to detections of MBFF in figs from the state of Morelos, Mexico. Under the Federal Order, fresh fig fruit from areas where MBFF is present must be treated using 400 Gy irradiation, which is an APHIS approved treatment for all insects except adults and pupae of Lepidoptera. Consignments from areas in Mexico where MBFF is not present will continue to be treated with 150 gy irradiation but will now require a phytosanitary certificate with an additional declaration stating that the figs were produced in an area free of MBFF. Fresh figs brought in by passengers and in non-commercial consignments are prohibited