As of 31 March 2025, the UK Plant Health Service has confirmed three positive findings of Ring Rot (Clavibacter sepedonicus) in ware potato consignments imported from Poland. The detections were made during routine inspections. Two of the affected consignments originated from the same Polish exporter, while the third came from a separate exporter.
The UK authorities are working in coordination with the National Plant Protection Organisation (NPPO) of Poland to determine the source of the infected consignments. Tracing of the affected shipments has been completed, and inspections were carried out at several locations connected to their movement. The remaining stocks have been destroyed. None of the sites involved were potato growers or directly linked to agricultural production.
In response to these findings, the UK has implemented stricter controls on all ware potato imports from Poland. Effective immediately, there will be a 100% inspection rate and latent testing for all Polish consignments, including bulk shipments. This is an increase from the previous 50% inspection rate. All consignments will be held at the Border Control Post or Control Point until results confirm they are free from the disease.
Latent testing will now involve 400 tubers per consignment, up from the previous requirement of 200 tubers. Even if no symptoms are observed, all consignments from Poland will be detained pending test results. If Clavibacter sepedonicus is detected, the consignment will be destroyed under a Statutory Plant Health Notice.
As Ring Rot is classified as a GB Quarantine Pest, any confirmed cases will trigger formal response measures. These include surveillance to trace infected or potentially infected tubers, plants, production sites, storage facilities, transport vehicles, and packaging materials. If the disease is found at a processing facility, operations will be halted, and a Statutory Plant Health Notice will require full cleaning and disinfection of the premises before activities can resume.
To view the full report, click here.
For more information:
Plant Health Portal
Email: plantpestsrisks@defra.gov.uk
www.planthealthportal.defra.gov.uk