<h1>Chinese Garlic Imports Banned Since 2005 Due to Fungal Contamination; FSSAI Directs Investigation of Illegal Sales</h1> Food safety regulator FSSAI has received complaints about banned Chinese garlic being sold in Chennai markets and has directed Tamil Nadu government to investigate. Chinese garlic imports have been banned since 2005 due to fungal contamination. Government officials reported seizures of 546 tonnes in 2023-24 and 507 tonnes in 2024-25. FSSAI has instructed Tamil Nadu Food Safety Department to conduct monitoring activities, while all Plant Quarantine Stations have been directed to prevent imports. Agricultural imports are regulated through the Plant Quarantine Order of 2003, with various agencies responsible for inspection and enforcement.