The IGTC was in Melbourne, Australia last week to attend the meeting of the IPPC’s Expert Working Group (EWG) on a new ISPM for grain. 

The IGTC held ‘Daily Debrief’ calls to get feedback from its Policy Team on issues as they emerged – including notification of import requirements; sampling and testing; and recognition of existing industry practices. There remains strong support among the grain trade community to stick to “Specification 60” as the principle basis for the drafting of the ISPM, along with the trade facilitative measures outlined in the IGTC policy document. 

Grain Trade Australia (GTA) kindly hosted an educational visit to Geelong port for the EWG, as well as a networking dinner on Wednesday evening.

We confirm that pen has now been put to paper by the EWG, forming the outline of a draft ISPM for further consultation. The International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) remains committed to dialogue with the grain trade as the drafting continues.