As notified in G/SPS/N/AUS/469, the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has implemented emergency measures for tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and capsicum (Capsicum annuum species complex) seeds. These measures have been in place since 2019.
This addendum is to notify trading partners that we have reviewed Australia's import conditions for tomato and capsicum seed disease testing. This review focused on evaluating seed testing protocols for Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) and Tomato mottle mosaic virus (ToMMV), as well as the authorisation process for laboratories conducting these tests.
As a result of this review, we are updating Australia's emergency measures for tomato and capsicum seeds. We will be introducing two key changes, which include:
1. Establishing a list of authorised laboratories registered to test tomato and capsicum seed;
2. Updating the approved testing protocols and the interpretation of their results to improve
consistency and assurance in detecting ToBRFV and ToMMV.
The new import conditions will commence on 12 November 2025. A list of authorised laboratories will be published on 1 October 2025 to enable importers to begin transitioning to the new arrangements.
During the transition period (1 October 2025 – 11 November 2025), we will continue to accept seed lots that have already been tested for ToBRFV and ToMMV under Australia's existing import conditions. Consignments that arrive on or after 12 November 2025 that do not meet the new requirements will be offered onshore testing at an approved laboratory in Australia (at the importer's expense), exported or disposed.