12 May 2026
Who does this notice affect?
Onshore and offshore seed testing laboratories and importers of tomato and capsicum seed for sowing, as well as seed suppliers, exporters, commercial growers and their customs brokers.
What is changing?
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has commenced Phase 2 of our review of diagnostic testing requirements for tomato and capsicum seed.
As previously communicated via import industry notice 128-2025, we are reviewing diagnostic testing requirements for tomato and capsicum seed. Phase 1 of this review focussed on the priority pathogens Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) and Tomato mottle mosaic virus (ToMMV).
Phase 2 will focus on the remaining regulated tomato and capsicum seed pathogens:
- Pepino mosaic virus
- Columnea latent viroid
- Pepper chat fruit viroid
- Potato spindle tuber viroid
- Tomato apical stunt viroid.
The review includes consideration of testing protocols, result interpretation criteria and laboratory authorisation requirements.
The review does not consider any new seed pathogens.
When will the draft report be released?
We anticipate publishing a draft report for consultation in mid-2027. We will consult with relevant stakeholders, including seed testing laboratories, as part of this process. Please note that this is an indicative timeline and may be subject to change.
Why is the department undertaking this work?
We are doing this review to ensure existing diagnostic testing requirements remain technically robust, appropriately validated and fit for purpose. Some testing protocols have been in place for many years and require review to ensure they continue to provide appropriate assurance.
Background information
Tomato and capsicum seed can act as a pathway for the introduction and spread of plant pathogens that pose a significant risk to Australia’s vegetable and horticulture industries. In recent years, the department has reviewed import conditions for tomato and capsicum seed, initially focusing on priority pathogens Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) and Tomato mottle mosaic virus (ToMMV).
Further information
For further information please contact Plant Import Operations via email at imports@aff.gov.au (please include ‘Plant T2 – Phase 2 changes for Tomato and Capsicum seed for sowing’ within the subject line of the email).