Mexican officials underscored the critical role of plant health in safeguarding food security and sustainable agriculture, during the inauguration of The National Plant Health Week 2024. Agricultural specialists and producers nationwide, highlighted the pivotal nature of crop health in ensuring robust agricultural production and promoting responsible farming practices.

Javier Calderón Elizalde, Chief Executive, SENASICA, emphasized the strategic importance of knowledge exchange among government, producers, and the scientific community in enhancing plant health. This collaboration not only protects small to medium-scale producers but also guarantees safe and healthy food for consumers.

Francisco Ramírez, Director General of Plant Health, SENASICA, reported Mexico's free status of over 1,000 of the 1,271 agricultural pests documented by the FAO, underscoring Mexico's proactive measures in pest management. He highlighted ongoing efforts to prevent the entry and spread of Fusarium Oxysporum Raza 4 Tropical, a devastating disease affecting banana crops in South America.

With 80,641ha dedicated to banana cultivation in Mexico, the nation maintains self-sufficiency and exports surplus produce. The Ministry of Agriculture employs over 90 highly specialized field technicians strategically stationed to detect and respond promptly to disease threats, ensuring rapid diagnosis and containment, highlighted Ramírez.

Throughout the week-long event, attendees will benefit from expert-led conferences, symposiums, and exhibitions covering preventive measures against pests and diseases affecting staple crops such as maize, avocado, strawberries, coffee, cotton, chili, and tomatoes. Experts from SENASICA will also outline control programs targeting pests like the Central American locust and fruit fly, which pose substantial risks to multiple crops.