11.5 kg of virus-contaminated tomato seeds from China seized at Antalya Airport
A man’s hand planting tomato seeds into a fertile peat pot filled with soil. (Adobe Stock Photo)
Authorities at Antalya Airport have intercepted 11.5 kilograms of tomato seeds contaminated with Tomato Mottle Mosaic Virus (ToMMV). The virus-ridden seeds, originating from China, were prevented from entering Türkiye and promptly returned to their country of origin.
Strict inspection prevents agricultural threat
According to a statement from the General Directorate of Food and Control under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, inspectors trained and authorized by the ministry detected the contaminated seeds during a routine inspection at Antalya Airport.
“Following official controls and laboratory analysis, the presence of Tomato Mottle Mosaic Virus (ToMMV) was confirmed. Due to the risk it poses to Türkiye’s agricultural sector, the seeds have been returned to their country of origin,” the statement said.
A risk to Türkiye’s agricultural sector
The Tomato Mottle Mosaic Virus is known for causing severe damage to tomato crops, reducing yields and affecting quality.
Authorities have been tightening controls on imported seeds to prevent the spread of plant diseases that could threaten Türkiye’s agricultural economy.
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