China Restricts Imports Over Plant Bacteria

On May 26, 2026, China announced measures to prevent the introduction of Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum, a pathogen affecting solanaceous and apiaceous crops including potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, and carrots. Effective August 1, 2026, China will suspend import approvals for seed potatoes from affected regions. Additionally, strict testing and origin restrictions will be placed on tomato, pepper, carrot, coriander, celery, and parsley seeds from affected countries and regions. The announcement was made by the Office of Agricultural Affairs, Beijing, and published as an Attaché Report (GAIN) on June 16, 2026 (Report CH2026-0075).