Russian authorities halt invasive pest in Kazakh plum shipment at border

A shipment of fresh plums from Kazakhstan was found to contain western flower thrips, a harmful pest, at the Novorossiysk quarantine checkpoint. The discovery triggered an immediate response to prevent the insects from spreading into Russia. Authorities carried out emergency treatment to safeguard local agriculture.

The infestation was detected during a routine inspection by the Novorossiysk branch of the Federal Center for Quarantine of Plant Products. Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of live adult western flower thrips, which damage crops and spread plant viruses.

The entire 6.9-ton batch of plums was treated inside the refrigerated truck using an aluminium phosphide-based fumigant. After fumigation, the container underwent degassing to remove any lingering chemicals. A follow-up inspection will determine whether the pests have been fully eliminated. Nikolai Astanin, head of the disinfection department, explained that such measures are essential for stopping invasive species while allowing safe imports. Since January 2026, specialists have checked over 13,000 tons of regulated products from Kazakhstan, including around 69 tons of fresh plums. If no further pests are found, the plums will receive an inspection certificate and be released for sale in Russia.

Western flower thrips pose a major risk to agriculture across the Eurasian Economic Union. The treated shipment will only enter the market after passing a second examination. This process ensures compliance with quarantine rules while protecting local crops from invasive threats.