Bacterium has attacked olive trees in southern region of Italy. (Photo: lagazzettadelmezzogiorno.it)

French Agriculture Minister Stephane Le Foll announced the blockade, saying he was taking action on a national level pending an official decision by the European Commission. The decision passed by the French government includes strengthening check ups and supervision of vegetable products imported from Italy. Le Foll said that the xylella bacterial outbreak seriously threatens France’s economy and agriculture, especially the proximity of some regions like Corsica. Italian Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry Policies Maurizio Martina called Paris’ measure a mistake, adding that Italy has made every effort to localize epidemic zone and protect plants.