The European Beekeeping Association is sounding a critical alarm regarding the westward spread of the Tropilaelaps spp.mite, a parasite that reproduces faster and causes more devastating colony losses than the well-known Varroa mite. Recent detections in Georgia and Russian regions bordering Ukraine, alongside unconfirmed reports from Belarus, have signaled an immediate biosecurity threat to the European Union. Because the mite can travel through queen shipments, used equipment, and bee products, current import regulations are deemed insufficient to protect the European bee population.
In more detail, the EBA is urging the European Commission to take emergency action by temporarily removing Ukraine, Turkey, and Russia from the list of approved third countries for bee imports. They are also calling for a ban on unprocessed apiculture products and used equipment from these regions. Beyond trade restrictions, the EBA advocates for intensified health screenings in border Member States and the urgent development of environmentally friendly treatments, as no specific veterinary products are currently authorized in the EU to combat this pest. This proactive stance mirrors recent protective measures taken by Canada and the United Kingdom to prevent a potential collapse of the European beekeeping sector.
Letter is THERE.
