The Port of Wilmington has introduced a Leica Microscope to its operations, aiming to enhance the efficiency of inspecting imported produce and agricultural commodities. This addition is intended to streamline the process by which U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) specialists inspect imports for pests that may threaten domestic agriculture.
Historically, when CBP agriculture specialists detected potential pests, specimens had to be sent to the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) in Charleston, SC, for identification. This process could extend over several days. With the Leica Microscope, high-resolution images of specimens can be transmitted electronically to USDA officials, facilitating same-day analysis and identification, thereby reducing the adjudication time to several hours.
"This new piece of technology offers high-resolution imaging and rapid processing capabilities that allow for CBP frontline personnel to quickly and accurately identify and analyze specimens, reducing the time needed for adjudication," remarked CBP Area Port Director Miguel A. Garza, Jr. This technology is expected to expedite the inspection process significantly at the Port of Wilmington.
The integration of the Leica Microscope is seen as a collaborative success between NC Ports, CBP, and the USDA, aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the inspection process. "This technology will enable the Port of Wilmington to process a range of produce categories more efficiently," stated Brian Clark, Executive Director, of North Carolina Ports.
Moreover, the new microscope is anticipated to alleviate bottlenecks in the inspection process, potentially attracting more importers to the Port of Wilmington. This development is beneficial for North Carolina reefer exporters, as it facilitates the repositioning of empty equipment within the state, optimizing equipment flow for ocean carriers.
"Growing fresh produce imports for North Carolina grocery stores and consumers further unlocks NC agriculture and life sciences exports because it positions the necessary equipment right here at this close-proximity gateway," explained Hans Bean, Chief Commercial Officer, North Carolina Ports.
This enhancement underscores Wilmington's role as a key mid-Atlantic cold chain gateway, complemented by the addition of new industry cold storage facilities near the port.
About North Carolina Ports: North Carolina Ports operates deepwater locations in Wilmington and Morehead City, an inland port in Charlotte, and intermodal rail access through CSX's Carolina Connector (CCX) in Rocky Mount, facilitating global market access for consumers, businesses, and industries. The ports contribute to over 88,200 jobs and generate $660 million in state and local tax revenues annually.
Source: North Carolina Ports