Biosecurity New Zealand - Plant Imports
Seed/Grain imports - GM testing requirements for Medicago sativa (lucerne/alfalfa)

This email is to advise of the re-issusance of the following MAF Import Health Standards on the 30 November:

- Importation of Seed for Sowing , and
- Importation of Grains/Seeds for Consumption, Feed and Processing

These standards have been amended to include a mandatory GM testing requirement under the Medicago sativa (lucerne, alfalfa) schedules, for seed imported into New Zealand for sowing and sprouting. Seed imported for animal and bird feed will not require testing, as it is devitalised.

These amendments follows a period of public consultation in June-July 2006. The submissions have been reviewed and the GM testing protocol are available on the Biosecurity New Zealand website at http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/imports/plants/genetically-modified-organisms/current-issues.htm