23 Oct 2012

Australia worried about Fiji ginger imports

4:04 pm on 23 October 2012

The Australian Ginger Association says a Senate inquiry into the importation risks of fresh Fiji ginger could make or break the industry in Australia.

The inquiry was started on Monday and will examine a government biosecurity report.

The Association's secretary, Kylie Templeton, says she believes Australia is far too lenient in its quarantine requirements.

She says scientific evidence states clearly and unequivocally that imports of Fiji ginger will result in the introduction of pathogens because of severe problems with pest and diseases.

She says this puts at serious risk the future viability of the Australian ginger industry.