Russia blocks 24-tonne avocado shipment from Peru over pest

Russia's agricultural watchdog blocked a 24-tonne shipment of avocados from Peru from entering St Petersburg. Laboratory tests identified the pest Megaselia scalaris in the produce.

Specialists at the northwestern branch of the Federal Centre for Animal Health conducted the tests. The watchdog said they confirmed infestation of the regulated cargo. RBC, Fontanka and AIF St Petersburg reported the findings on October 9, citing the authority.

The decision concerns this particular shipment of fresh Peruvian avocados. The identified pest can reproduce rapidly, including indoors, and infest various products, among them potatoes, bananas and other plant goods.

The watchdog has previously detected Megaselia scalaris in imported produce. In February 2024, findings in several shipments prompted restrictions on banana imports from Ecuador. At the time, the authority also asked Ecuador to suspend certification of five exporters responsible for violations.