EFFORTS TOWARDS ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL, COORDINATED PEST RESPONSE MECHANISM FOR THE GALL MIDGE (DIPTERA: CECIDOMYIIDAE) PEST COMPLEX ON HOT PEPPERS IN JAMAICA
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In 1998, United States plant quarantine authorities (USDA/APHIS1) imposed mandatory methyl bromide fumigation requirements for all Hot Pepper exports from Jamaica, due to interceptions of Gall Midge (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) pupae in shipments. The Jamaican Ministry of Agriculture assembled a multi-agency Hot Pepper Task Force to develop and implement a management strategy. Major Task Force interventions were in port/pack-house inspection, collaborative research, field monitoring, training and post-harvest management. By mid-2000, port interception levels had fallen significantly; field infestation levels have also fallen. A computerized produce traceback system is now almost complete. However, the search for an alternative fumigant has so far been unsuccessful. In 2002, a review requested of USDA/APHIS made allowances for select non-fumigated shipments under a specified, strengthened programme. The collaborative approach provides a model towards optimal deployment of scarce resources. It facilitates the multi-faceted pest response system, crucial for the growing phytosanitary requirements of the current global trade environment.