Potato Mop-Top Virus: Industry Response Continues

by | Oct 7, 2025 | News

Important information for consideration

It has been confirmed that Potato mop-top virus (PMTV) was detected in seed potatoes held in storage in Victoria. The seed potatoes were supplied from Tasmania prior to the introduction of movement restrictions. The affected seed potatoes had not been planted in Victoria.
Potatoes Australia continues to recommend growers avoid planting any seed sourced from Tasmania until further advice is provided by state regulators. This is a precaution to help contain the virus and protect mainland crops.

Potatoes affected by PMTV remain safe to eat, and industry and government are working together to manage the situation and support growers.

Early detection and status

The affected potatoes were identified before planting, meaning the disease remains contained. In addition, all AuSPICA-certified seed potatoes exported this year underwent PMTV testing, with all results returning negative. Together, these outcomes support the position that PMTV is not widespread on the mainland and help maintain market confidence.

Tracing the Source
While it is unclear exactly how the disease first entered Tasmania, evidence suggests it may have been present for some years. The immediate focus is on reducing spread and minimising impacts on growers and the Australian industry.

Protecting Trade
Maintaining market access remains a priority. Since 2022, the seed industry—led by AuSPICA—has implemented a robust, evidence-based PMTV testing program. This provides assurance to trading partners that the disease is not widespread, underpinning area-freedom claims and supporting ongoing export opportunities. Importantly, this work has also enabled domestic capacity and capability for PMTV testing.

Support for Growers
Potatoes Australia is calling for the swift activation of Owner Reimbursement Costs (ORC) under the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed(EPPRD) to ease the impact of market restrictions on affected growers, and for targeted support to mainland growers where problems are identified in seed lines already on the mainland. We strongly advise against planting any potentially affected material to minimise biosecurity and financial risk.

PMTV declared not technically feasible to eradicate from Australia

On September 19 The National Management Group (NMG), with advice from the Consultative Committee on Emergency Plant Pests (CCEPP),  determined that potato mop-top virus (PMTV) is not technically feasible to eradicate from Australia.

This decision recognises the challenges of detection, persistence in soil, spread through seed and tubers, and the widespread presence of the vector, Spongospora subterranea.

For the official communique  visit: https://www.agriculture.gov.au/about/news/stay-informed/communiques/potato-mop-top-19sep2025

On behalf of the potato industry, a joint letter has been sent to Plant Health Australia (PHA) and AUSVEG calling for the immediate activation of the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed (EPPRD) levy.

The letter stresses that:

  • Tasmanian-origin seed has already been distributed to the mainland, creating a risk of spreading Potato mop-top virus (PMTV).
  • Owner Reimbursement Costs (ORCs) must be activated immediately for affected growers.
  • Surplus EPPRD funds collected for the Tomato Potato Psyllid (TPP) incursion should be redeployed to the current PMTV response, rather than remaining unallocated or being unnecessarily collected.
  • Failure to act swiftly risks the national spread of PMTV, threatening yields, tuber quality, domestic markets, and export access.

Current Actions

  • Biosecurity Tasmania continues to work closely with affected growers and industry to monitor seed stocks and manage risk of spread.
  • AUSVEG is the industry’s representative under the EPPRD

A coordinated, crop-specific response is essential to protect Australia’s potato production, safeguard market access, and maintain grower and consumer confidence.

For the latest update on the current potato mop-top virus situation and further information, visit Biosecurity Tasmania.

Potatoes Australia reaffirms its commitment to supporting growers, processors, and supply chain partners during this critical time. We will continue to work closely with government, industry bodies, and scientific experts to protect our crops, maintain market access, and safeguard the long-term future of the Australian potato industry.

Current Restrictions

To help stop the spread of PMTV, movement of potatoes from Tasmania into Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia have been restricted. 

Grower vigilance remains our strongest defence. If you notice unusual symptoms in your crop, report early and seek advice. Every report strengthens our ability to manage risks and protect the industry.

If you suspect PMTV symptoms, please report immediately to: