The Washington Apple Commission has suffered a setback in its attempts to persuade China to import their apples. In December, Chinese officials appeared ready to resume imports of Washington Reds and Goldens after one more inspection trip, but they have since added a variety of bureaucratic strings to the deal.
Inspection officials in China have not allowed Washington apples into their ports for several years due to an alleged risk of a fungal disease.
U.S.A industry officials claim the risks are being exaggerated. They also suspect China of playing trade politics with plant safety. Chinese trade representatives want to export Chinese apples to America, too.