September marks 29 years since the first large-scale release of sterile insects for fruit fly control in Argentina’s Patagonian region. The program forms part of measures used to maintain Patagonia’s phytosanitary status as a Fruit Fly-Free Area.
The National Fruit Fly Program (PROCEM) has been implemented since 1994. In Patagonia, it is carried out by the Patagonian Zoophytosanitary Barrier Foundation (FUNBAPA) under the coordination of the National Agri-Food Health and Quality Service (SENASA).
Patagonia’s status as a Fruit Fly-Free Area was recognized by the United States in 2005, followed by Chile in 2013 and China in 2020. The phytosanitary status supports access for fruit from the region to international markets and reduces the need for quarantine treatments.
To maintain pest-free status, PROCEM Patagonia conducts continuous pest surveillance, epidemiological analysis, and controls on products entering the production valleys. The measures are intended to allow early detection and a response to potential fruit fly incursions.
Controls also include inspections at Patagonian Barrier control posts and border crossings. SENASA technical personnel monitor regulated products entering the region through land access points, ports, and airports.
The program is mainly financed by growers through a phytosanitary fee applied to fruit destined for export, the domestic market, and processing. SENASA finances the Sanitary Barrier.
Maintaining the region’s phytosanitary status supports market access for Patagonian pears, apples, cherries, and other crops while reducing quarantine treatment costs. PROCEM Patagonia is implemented through cooperation between public and private stakeholders in the region’s fruit sector.
