In the fast-paced world of global trade, quick thinking and solid partnerships can make all the difference. A recent incident with the marine vessel Regal Bay—carrying more than 4,500 pallets of fruit into the U.S.—is a perfect example of how strategic-thinking and collaboration can turn a potential costly disaster into a success story.
On Aug. 12, APHIS Plant Safeguarding Specialist David Kleinguenther learned that the cold treatment process aboard the Regal Bay had likely failed. The ship, arriving in the Port of Philadelphia, was carrying fruit that must be kept at -0.55 °C for 22 days to meet U.S. import requirements designed to protect against invasive plant pests and diseases. Failure to meet those standards meant the shipment would be rejected at the port, potentially leading to substantial losses.
The cargo, valued at more than $10 million, could have been headed for spoilage. But, thanks to swift action by Kleinguenther, APHIS officers Kevin O’Connor and Nivaldo Acevedo, and a network of industry partners, that worst-case scenario was avoided.
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