Japan Ends U.S. Potato Import Ban

WASHINGTON - Feb 22/06 - SNS -- Japan has ended its decades old ban on imports of fresh potatoes from the United States, says agriculture secretary Mike Johanns, making it possible for Japan to reduce imports of frozen potatoes.

"Japan's decision is welcome news for U.S. potato growers," said Johanns at a meeting of the National Potato Council. "This announcement is an important step in the resumption of trade in fresh potatoes with Japan and underscores the importance of following science-based guidelines that facilitate the safe international trade of agricultural products."

Japan is the largest U.S. export market for frozen potatoes, with purchases of over $164 million in 2004. The decision will apply to potatoes shipped between February and June, which will ostensibly be used to produce potato chips. Japan banned potato imports in 1950 due to phytosanitary concerns relating to the potato wart bacteria and the cyst nematode. The decision to conditionally lift the import ban follows a notice from the United States that it has eliminated the potato wart bacteria and has contained the cyst nematode to a limited area.

After sending experts to the United States last summer for inspections, Japan has authorized imports of potatoes from 14 states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, Texas, Oregon, Washington and Wisconsin. Final inspections of United States facilities will be required before shipments can begin. Thus far, inspections have been completed in Idaho, Texas and California and the first shipment from Idaho is expected to arrive in Japan in March.

Exports during the first year may be limited until additional Japanese processors are approved to import U.S. potatoes. USDA and the U.S. potato industry will work to expand the number of U.S. approved facilities and the number of states allowed to ship to Japan.