Spain: A parasite was found in a shipment of Moroccan pomegranates

The European Commission confirmed that a shipment of pomegranates coming from Morocco was infected with the African apple moth, a pest previously unknown in the region and considered free of this threat, according to Spanish media reports. The Valencian Farmers Association (AVA-ASAJA) in Spain expressed concern about this threat, highlighting the potential danger to the European agricultural sector. The organization called for an immediate investigation by the European Union to assess the extent of the threat and consider the necessary measures to prevent the spread of this scourge in Europe. The parasite, which poses a threat to various products such as citrus fruits, stone fruits and even grape vines, could lead to a significant decline in agricultural production if it spreads to Europe. Its impact is significant, as it can cause a decline of about 25% in citrus production. The scale of the threat is evident in its presence and rapid expansion in Africa, where it has already ...