Apples

A rather curious recent development. Australia banned apple and pear imports from New Zealand nearly 90 years ago after a disease outbreak in NZ in the 1920. This ban has been finally successfully appealed to the WTO by NZ growers. Australian growers will now lose much of the protection they had, and will have to compete with imports. Good news for consumers, crunch time for growers that have become complacent without competition.

Still, one quote from Australian growers left me smiling:
"Apple and Pear Australia Limited general manager Tony Russell said there were still persuasive arguments about the pest and disease risk posed by Kiwi apples.
'Rather than erring on the side of conservatism they have decided to take a more pro-trade stance and I think that's a rather dangerous precedent,' he said.
'This would be a slap in the face to Biosecurity Australia in terms of their ability to conduct impact risk assessments.'

Mr Russell also rejected claims Australian shoppers would get more choice, as New Zealand had 'nothing particularly flash' to offer.

Pink Ladies were Australia's favourite apples, and the best were home grown, he said."

That last statement is like saying Trebants were East German's favorite cars. A favorite amongst seriously limited options, come on now!

Not that Pink Ladies aren't a good apple, but damn, bring in some B.C. McIntosh's if you want a flash apple!