Potato Grower Concerns to Be Heard at PMTV Meeting

A broad cross-section of Australia’s potato industry has met in Melbourne to discuss the national response to Potato mop-top virus (PMTV).

More than 50 growers, industry bodies and state and federal biosecurity representatives will consider concerns arising since the virus was detected in Tasmania earlier this year.

PMTV has been ruled not technically feasible to eradicate, leaving management of the virus to industry through the production chain.

Restrictions remain in place on the movement of Tasmanian potatoes to the mainland, although authorities emphasise the virus poses no risk to human health.

AUSVEG, the sole grower organisation represented under the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed, convened the meeting to ensure grower concerns are understood by  government decision-makers.

AUSVEG CEO Michael Coote said PMTV had become “a cause of major concern for potato growers around the country.” He stressed the importance of maintaining vigilance, noting that “the determination that PMTV is not technically feasible to eradicate does not mean we can let our guard down when it comes to protecting potato growers, and our national industry.”

Mr Coote said the industry is complex and diverse, making consultation essential.

“Without a pre-determined outcome in mind, we bring parties with skin in the game together to ensure the views and needs of growers are reflected in the national approach,” he said.

He added that while consistent national testing and surveillance were important, “fundamentally it is key to ensure the interests of Australian potato growers are protected, and that the integrity of our national potato industry is preserved to ensure its future viability.”