35679 (2026). Hon Jo Luxton to the Minister for Biosecurity

Written Question

Published date: 23 Aug 2026

Metadata

Document type:	Written Question
Parliament number:	54
Question number:	35679 (2026)
Question asked:	09 Aug 2026
Member asking:	Hon Jo Luxton
Portfolio:	Minister for Biosecurity
Minister replying:	Hon Andrew Hoggard
Answer received:	17 Aug 2026
Status:	Question Answered
Reply type:	Reply
Document ID:	WQ_35679_2026
Document guid:	00ebd7c1-6bc7-49dc-b423-26a295c33cb9

35679 (2026). Hon Jo Luxton to the Minister for Biosecurity: Has MPI reviewed published estimates of visual inspection sensitivity for cryptic pests, and what evidence demonstrates that commercially operated grading and inspection systems consistently detect low-density infestations of the pests listed in the draft IHS Fresh Blueberries for Human Consumption?

Hon Andrew Hoggard: The biological traits of cryptic pests were considered by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) as part of the risk assessment. Information about the risk assessment is available on the MPI consultation page here: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/consultations/proposed-import-requirements-for-fresh-blueberries-vaccinium-spp-for-human-consumption.