This insect is classified as a restricted pest in Ukraine due to its potential crop threat
Ukraine has halted importing a 10.37-tonne fresh lettuce from the Netherlands after discovering a quarantine pest during inspection.
The batch, which entered Ukraine through Poland, was examined at a customs clearance facility in Lviv, where phytosanitary inspectors detected traces of Western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis Perg.). This insect is classified as a restricted pest in Ukraine due to its potential crop threat.
Authorities ordered the shipment returned to the exporter by Ukraine’s Law on Plant Quarantine and international phytosanitary regulations. The decision aligns with Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to protect domestic agriculture from invasive pests, ensure food safety, and comply with biosecurity measures.
This incident highlights the country’s strict import controls and the importance of phytosanitary inspections in preventing the spread of harmful pests that could impact local crop yields and food supply.
