Brussels, 16/03/2015 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 16 March, the European Commission reported back to the European agriculture ministers on the situation regarding Xylella fastidiosa, a bacterium which could cause considerable losses to agriculture and the whole of the agri-food chain.
An outbreak was declared in Italy, in Puglia in 2013, when olive trees were severely infested (EUROPE 11090). According to the Commission, Italy has failed to take adequate emergency measures. The Commission fears that the disease could spread. It is currently re-examining the EU's emergency measures. Vines and citrus fruits could also be in danger. (Lionel Changeur)