Netherlands: Pepper Weevil-beetle big obstacle for pepper growers

The Dutch pepper growers that are in the quarantine area where the Pepper Weevil was found, have to wait with the start of their new crop. The local authorities want to ensure that the pest is completely eradicated. Therefore there is a pesticide application is required. The beetle is found nowhere else than in Honselersdijk and Kwintsheul.

The pepper growers are awaiting for an exemption for the pesticide, but they already have ordered their new plants and can not wait too long. There are four Dutch growers that are switched to another crop than peppers, for example tomatoes. This is also due the low prices the pepper growers get for their crops last year.