Increase in Pesticide MRL Testing June 23, 2010 BACKGROUND: On June 17, 2010 the Korean Government implemented a pesticide test and hold policy on all U.S. cherry shipments.  This regulatory action was taken by Korea in response to reports of a Danitol (fenpropathrin) violation on cherries from California that were exported to Taiwan.  On June 23, Korea announced that a cherry shipment from California tested positive for the presence of Danitol (fenpropathrin) at 0.8 ppm, a product for which Korea has a maximum residue level of 0.5 ppm for cherries.  Korea has established MRLs for fenpropathrin on many other foods.         CURRENT SITUATION:  As of June 17 all cherry shipments are being tested on arrival for the presence of fenpropathrin and held until test results are available in two to three days.  Initially, Korea announced that once five shipments from an exporter were tested and found to be in compliance with Korean standards, inspection levels for the exporter of record would be reduced to normal levels.  Following the June 23rd violation, it appears that importers are again being required to submit additional shipment(s) for testing (there are different reports on the specific number) based on arrival dates of June 23 or later.         The situation is in flux and official information is difficult to obtain.  Korea may well announce a new policy on June 24.      CONTACT:  For additional information contact Mark Powers or Dr. Mike Willett, Northwest Horticultural Council at 509/453-3193. Northwest Horticultural Council 105 South 18th Street, Suite 105 Yakima, Washington 98901, USA Voice: (509) 453-3193, Fax: (509) 457-7615 E-mail general@nwhort.org