UAE's Ministry of Climate Change and Environment denies lifting ban on import of vegetables, fruits from Jordan

DUBAI, 11th May, 2017 (WAM) -- The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, MoCCaE, has denied rumours circulating on Jordanian media outlets with regards to the UAE's lifting of the ban on imports of certain vegetables and fruits from the Kingdom of Jordan, saying that no decision has been issued in these regards by the UAE.

Last month, the Ministry announced a decision to ban imports of vegetables and fruits from selected countries with effect from May 15th, 2017, as those products have been found to contain pesticide residues in excess of permissible limits. The counties impacted by the ban include Jordan, Egypt, Oman, Lebanon and Yemen.

These countries have been asked to provide a certificate of analysis of pesticide residues for all other vegetables and fruits stating that they are free of such residues as of May 15th, 2017.

Their relevant ministries have also been asked to comply with the food safety standards adopted by the UAE. The ban on the produce will continue until necessary safety requirements are met and pesticide residues are cleared.

Through its sophisticated laboratories accredited by the British Commission for Accreditation, UKAS, the Ministry works relentlessly to analyse pesticide residue in all fresh produce and processed food in line with the best international standards.

Laboratories in the UAE have the capacity to analyse several samples simultaneously. By doing so, they save time in issuing the results and help in making prompt and appropriate decisions on consignments that violate safety rules and procedures.

Food safety is a core priority of the UAE's food security system. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment continues its efforts to provide healthy and safe food to consumers in line with global best practices and the objectives of the UAE National Agenda and the UAE Vision 2021. Enhancing food safety and sustaining local production are strategic priorities for the ministry. Furthermore, the Ministry is also keen to ensure that all foodstuffs and products in the country, both domestically produced and imported, are safe for consumption.