SAG launches campaign to protect Chile from the fruit fly

The initiative seeks to prevent the entry of the plague that threatens Chilean agriculture and exports.

The Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) launched the "Mission Prevention" campaign to raise public awareness about how to prevent the entry of the Mediterranean fruit fly ( Ceratitis capitata ). Chile, free of this pest for over 30 years, is one of the world's leading fruit exporters. SAG's National Director, José Guajardo, urged the public not to bring in plant products without authorization and to purchase them only from formal retailers to protect the country's phytosanitary status.

Currently, the SAG (Chilean Agricultural and Livestock Service) is working to eradicate fruit fly infestations from Arica and Parinacota to O'Higgins. Each outbreak entails high costs and export restrictions for affected producers. However, thanks to the SAG's efforts, infestations have been eliminated in Tarapacá, Coquimbo, and Los Andes-El Sauce, allowing quarantines to be lifted and benefiting local farmers.

The campaign includes outreach on social media, radio, and television to inform the public about the risks of this pest, which affects more than 250 species of fruits and vegetables. Authorities emphasize that climate change and the illegal entry of agricultural products complicate the situation, but with public cooperation, Chile can maintain its fruit fly-free status and ensure its competitiveness in international markets.

Source: portalfruticola.com