• 2 min de lectura
• 2 min de lectura
September marks 29 years since the first massive release of sterile insects as a method of fruit fly control in the Patagonian region. Since then, the articulated work between the National Agri-Food Health and Quality Service (SENASA) and the Patagonian Zoophytosanitary Barrier Foundation (FUNBAPA) has been key to maintaining the phytosanitary condition of the region as a Fruit Fly-Free Area, a sanitary recognition that safeguards fruit production and favors its access to international markets with high demands.
The task is not new, as the National Fruit Fly Program (PROCEM) has been implemented since 1994. In Patagonia, its execution is carried out through the sanitary entity FUNBAPA, under the coordination of SENASA. Among the main achievements are the recognition of the Free Area, in 2005, by the government of the United States; followed by that of Chile in 2013 and that of the People's Republic of China in 2020.
To maintain the condition of a pest-free area, PROCEM Patagonia carries out continuous pest surveillance actions, epidemiological analysis, and entry control in the productive valleys. This work allows for early detection of any threat and immediate action to preserve plant health in the provinces of the region.
In addition to field controls, the sanitary scheme is complemented by constant inspection at the Patagonian Barrier control posts and at border crossings, where SENASA technical personnel monitor the entry of regulated products at land accesses, ports, and airports.
The strategic alliance between public and private actors linked to the region's fruit sector reaffirms the commitment to continue strengthening PROCEM Patagonia, guaranteeing the quality, health, and competitiveness of Patagonian fruit growing worldwide. In this regard, it is highlighted that the Program is mainly financed by producers through the sanitary fee applied to fruit destined for export, the domestic market, and industry. Likewise, SENASA is responsible for the total financing of the Sanitary Barrier.
The maintenance of this phytosanitary condition - a differentiated status - guarantees the access of pears, apples, cherries, and other Patagonian crops to the most demanding international markets, reducing costs for quarantine treatments and protecting the productive and commercial heritage of the region.
