Italian ornamental plant producers have regained access to the UK market, following a ban imposed in October 2024 by British health authorities. The import suspension had been triggered by the repeated detection of the insect Pochazia shantungensis in plant shipments from Italy. This decision had serious consequences for the Italian floriculture sector, with confiscated plants being destroyed, causing significant economic losses.

“The reopening of the UK market to Italian ornamental plants is excellent news,” said Masaf Undersecretary Patrizio La Pietra. “It is the result of the continuous efforts made to avoid a decision that could have had major repercussions for our industry. The UK’s choice not to classify Pochazia shantungensis as a quarantine pest for plants and to lift the ban on imports from Italy is a positive and strategic signal for the entire sector.”

La Pietra emphasized the collaboration between institutions and the research community in supporting the national production system and preventing serious economic harm to an industry that represents a pillar of Italian excellence and export leadership. “Today’s outcome rewards the commitment shown by Masaf, Minister Lollobrigida, and the entire Meloni government,” he concluded.

Source: Italian Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forests (Masaf)