AMS No. 212-09

Nadine Wilkins (202)720-8998

Nadine.wilkins@ams.usda.gov

Billy Cox (202)720-8998

Billy.cox@ams.usda.gov

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2009 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that Metro Produce Inc., operating in Dallas, Texas, has settled a reparation award issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA).

Metro Produce Inc. may again operate in the produce industry. The business’ sole officer, director, and stockholder, Vijay K. Singhal, may also be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee.

PACA provides for damages to be paid by those not meeting their contractual obligations in buying and selling fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables. Interstate traders operating as commission merchants, dealers or brokers, and conducting a sufficient volume of business must be USDA-licensed.

PACA requires USDA to suspend the license of a business that fails to pay reparations awarded against it.