The National Fruit Fly Strategy 2020-25 released today will aim to maintain Australia’s freedom from exotic fruit fly, minimise the incidence and spread of fruit fly, implement national systems that support market access and facilitate a cooperative and committed national approach to fruit fly management. Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said the Strategy was a collaborative effort by all stakeholders involved in fruit fly management – from growers to governments. “Fruit flies cost Australia’s horticulture sector around $300 million a year and can have a major impact on our fruit and vegetable growers,” Minister Littleproud said. “They are a key barrier to market access for fruit fly affected industries, which make up about half of Australia’s $13 billion horticulture sector. The National Fruit Fly Strategy 2020-25 provides a blueprint for national cooperation and will enhance the effectiveness of management activities to support landholders and the community to manage fruit flies better into the future.” “The Strategy is aligned with the goals and outcomes of the Australian Governments $16.9 million Smart Fruit Fly Management measure, which aims to improve national harmonisation and coordination of the national fruit fly management system. “I look forward to working with government and industry toward the delivery of a strengthened national approach to the management of fruit fly.” Annual implementation plans will be used by the National Fruit Fly Council to coordinate, monitor and report on progress against the Strategy. Source - https://www.freshplaza.com