Agriculture leaders request trade to flow ‘without undue delay’
They said there was no evidence to date of viruses that cause respiratory illnesses being transmitted via food or food packaging, according to the World Health Organisation.
The statement said: “As we face the effects of this crisis, reliable and resilient agricultural supply chains remain essential to guarantee the availability of safe, nutritious food around the world. Our nations have taken the measures necessary to keep agricultural supply chains operational, ensuring the continued production and distribution of safe, quality products, while safeguarding the health and welfare of agricultural sector workers. We are open for business and you can count on us for safe and high-quality food.
“As Western Hemisphere agricultural leaders, whose countries represent 35% of global exports in agricultural products, we reiterate the importance of maintaining agricultural trade flows, while avoiding unjustified trade-restrictive measures, in order to keep markets open and ensure global food security, especially to those most vulnerable. We call on trading partners to allow trade to flow without undue delay or unjustified requirements.
“We will continue to work with our partners and with relevant regional and international organizations to exchange information, enhance coordination, and strengthen our global response to the crisis.
“Looking at the aftermath of this pandemic, we recognize that agriculture will be an important engine for economic recovery. Innovation and technological development will be vital to guarantee that food systems develop sustainably to feed the world’s growing population.”
News agency Reuters reported that China said it will suspend imports from companies if frozen food products test positive for coronavirus.
