The recent detection of Potato Mop-Top Virus (PMTV) in Tasmania marks the first time this virus has been found in Australia. While this presents a challenge for our industry, it also demonstrates the value of growers, industry, and government working together.
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.
It’s important to note that PMTV poses no risk to human health; it affects potato productivity, not food safety.
Potato mop-top virus (PMTV) poses a major, long-term threat to the Australian potato industry. The virus can persist in soils for more than a decade, is vectored by Spongospora subterranea (powdery scab), and once introduced, is virtually impossible to eradicate. Its impacts are: reduced yields, internal tuber defects including internal brown, necrotic arcs, rings, or flecks in the tuber’s flesh (spraing), and trade restrictions in both domestic and export markets.
This makes PMTV not just a Tasmanian issue, but a national challenge requiring urgent attention. 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
The detection of Potato Mop-Top Virus (PMTV) in Tasmania has demonstrated the resilience of our industry and the importance of working together. The first case was identified due to grower vigilance, with a farmer recognising unusual symptoms and acting responsibly by reporting them. Biosecurity Tasmania responded quickly, activating an Incident Management Team, applying movement restrictions, and beginning surveillance. On the ground, TasFarmers and processors have provided direct support to affected farms.
The detection of PMTV has highlighted the urgent need for clear, consistent communication and a strong, nationally harmonised approach to this incursion. Timely and transparent updates are essential to maintaining industry confidence and ensuring that all stakeholders are aware of the symptoms of PMTV and its potential impact to the industry.
It is critical that robust, accessible information on PMTV is made available to growers, processors, and regulators alike. This includes importantly informing state-based regulators of the value of the potato industry and the likely impacts of PMTV on production and trade.
Maintaining strong on-farm biosecurity practices — including hygiene measures, careful seed selection, and vigilance for unusual symptoms —will also be essential in reducing the risk of further spread.
The engagement of leading plant pathologists, virologists, and international experts will be vital in providing the practical, science-based guidance needed to reduce the risk of PMTV becoming established in Australia. At the same time, we encourage all sectors of the supply chain to remain vigilant — from growers and processors through to distributors and retailers — to help safeguard crop production and market confidence.
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.
➡️ Learn more about farm biosecurity by visiting: https://www.farmbiosecurity.com.au/industry/potatoes/
| Potatoes Australia Recommendations Potatoes Australia would like to share some important clarifications and have the following recommendations on the next steps for industry: Seed from Tasmania Tas Seed assures that all certified seed lines in Tasmania have been or are currently undergoing laboratory testing, with all results due back by September 15. Tas Seed emphasised that 90% of Tasmanian seed undergoes the certification process and testing is available for growers volunteering to check non-certified seed lines. Mainland seed testing originating from Tasmanian sources is ongoing. AuSPICA have been contracted by Tas Seed to conduct limited seed testing of Tasmania gold label seed lots. The risk of spreading Spongospora that is infected with PMTV on the surface of tubers remains despite negative seed testing. Until further advice is issued by State regulators, it is strongly recommended that planting of seed potatoes from affected regions be withheld. This precautionary step will reduce the risk of inadvertently introducing PMTV to new fields. Growers and industry are reminded to maintain strict on-farm biosecurity practices when handling any seed potatoes. This includes careful management and disposal of potato and soil waste. Trade is continuing There is sufficient data to provide evidence for the mainland to maintain area freedom, and that trade pathways are being actively managed. AuSPICA have supplied surveillance data to SA, Vic and NSW to support area freedom. This was based on AuSPICA biosecurity preparation program which developed training and protocols for determining disease pest symptoms (such as PMTV) in the field and ultimately laboratory test capacity and capability with their diagnostic partner Intertek. Interstate biosecurity regulations have been implemented with the intention of not stopping trade but to protect markets. For example, permits are being granted for ware potatoes from Tasmania where requirements are met. Other states Similar approaches to Victoria’s restrictions are expected to be adopted by other states. If you suspect PMTV symptoms, please report immediately to: Exotic Plant Pest Hotline: 1800 084 881 Agriculture Victoria reporting portal: https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/pest-insects-and-mites/report-an-unusual-plant-insect-pest-or-disease? We will continue to provide updates as the situation develops. In the meantime, if you have questions or require clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us. |