IsrealMarket access to Israel for fresh U.S. highbush blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum) is currently on an import permit basis. Shipments of fresh U.S. highbush blueberries to Israel must be accompanied by an import permit and a phytosanitary certificate. Once an import permit is obtained, U.S. exporters should obtain a phytosanitary certificate from USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
U.S. exporters should direct their import permit requests to Israel’s national plant protection organization: Ms. Shlomit Zioni Head of Plant Biosecurity Plant Protection and Inspection Services Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development Address: P.O. Box 78, Bet-Dagan, Israel 50250 Email: [email protected] Phone: (+972) 3 9681583 Fax: (+972) 3 9603005 Website: http://www.ppis.moag.gov.il/ The CA blueberry industry is currently working with USDA-APHIS and other stakeholders on a negotiation of a market access agreement for U.S. blueberries. In 2022, Israel contacted USDA-APHIS to request that negotiations be expedited due to increased demand in the country for blueberries. In March of 2022, Israel provided a draft work plan to the U.S. California, in conjunction with other blueberry producing states, provided a response and are currently awaiting feedback from Israel. Israel allows for unrestricted importation of dried fruit from the United States. Exporters can ship dried U.S. blueberries to Israel without a phytosanitary certificate or an import permit. The USDA/APHIS Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD), does not report any import permit or phytosanitary certificate requirements for frozen U.S. blueberries. |
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