What is a requirement for businesses involved in the plant trade regarding inspections?

For businesses engaged in the plant trade, regular inspections are a key requirement to ensure compliance with health and safety standards, as well as to prevent the introduction and spread of pests and diseases. These inspections help regulatory agencies assess whether businesses are following best practices in plant care, handling, and transportation.

Regular inspections are vital for maintaining the integrity of the plant trade, safeguarding ecosystems, and protecting consumer interests. They provide a systematic way to monitor practices and help detect any potential issues before they escalate. This requirement is essential to ensure that the plants moving through trade channels remain healthy and free from harmful pests or diseases that could threaten local agriculture and biodiversity.

While off-site audits, self-assessments, and optional inspections may play a role in a comprehensive regulatory framework, they do not replace the necessity of regular inspections, which are mandated to uphold industry standards and ensure consistent monitoring.