restrictions on imports of tropical fresh fruit in march 2000 the philippines reported that its exports including mangoes bananas and pineapples faced phytosanitary restrictions in australia. australia explained that in response to a request for access australia conducted an open transparent and consultative process of scientific risk assessment and risk management to avoid the introduction of diseases. both countries indicated that they were conducting bilateral consultations on the matter. in june 2000 the philippines pointed out that major asean exports to australia faced stringent sps measures that were not based on a risk assessment. these measures were more restrictive than necessary and should be reviewed within a reasonable period of time. malaysia suggested australia carry out asean-wide risk assessments. australia offered detailed comments on each of the points raised by the philippines and noted that a formal response would be provided in due course. in response to malaysia australia explained that pest risk analysis was specific to the trading partners involved and varied according to the exporters pest status. the united states urged australia to expedite its decisions regarding market access for florida citrus and california table grapes. australia replied that an import risk analysis had been completed for table grapes several appeals had been addressed and the relevant information was about to be released. in response to brazils comments regarding its market access applications for mango and papaya australia confirmed that these were on the list of matters to be considered by australian risk analysts. with reference to indias concern about market access for mangoes australia reported that indian authorities had provided helpful information regarding the efficacy of treatment for pests in mangoes and that australia was currently evaluating that information. regarding ec concerns australia confirmed that an import risk analysis was being conducted on bulbs. australia noted that it was necessary to set priorities for risk assessment given scarce financial and human resources.