the South Korean government temporarily banned the import of fruits from two areas of California on November 7 following the us administration's declaration that harmful insects were found in the fruit grown in the region. The ban covers nine fruits including oranges, lemons, melons, kiwi and limes grown in Walnut Park, Los Angeles county, and Mitipas, Santa Clara county. The us administration is exterminating the medfly in these regions.

"It is a follow-up measure after the us kept fruit produced in the areas from trading to prevent the transfer of harmful insects to other areas,' said Chang Young Kook of the South Korean ministry of agriculture and fishery. Earlier in the week, South Korea suspended beef imports from Nebraska following reports that it was contaminated by E coli bacteria. This has caused a sudden drop in consumer confidence in us meat and fruit, according to reports.