3 September 2026: Tropilaelaps mite restrictions: Türkiye
Updated 4 September 2026
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/official-veterinary-surgeon-ovs-notes/3-september-2026-tropilaelaps-mite-restrictions-turkiye
OVS note number: 2026/43
Purpose
To inform you that, due to a recent outbreak of Tropilaelaps spp. mite in Türkiye, safeguard measures have been published to temporarily restrict imports into Great Britian of the following commodities from Türkiye:
- honey bees
- unprocessed apiculture by-products
- used beekeeping equipment
- apiculture products in honeycomb intended for human consumption
Background
Türkiye confirmed an outbreak of Tropilaelaps spp. mite on 31 August 2026, reported through the World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS). The outbreak was first detected in Çavuşlu, Artvin Province.
OVS note 2026/42 was issued on 1 September 2026 notifying of the outbreak and requesting that commercial imports of susceptible commodities from Türkiye be held while import restrictions were implemented to mitigate the risk of Tropilaelaps spp. mite.
The UK Office for SPS Trade Assurance has now taken action to suspend imports into Great Britain of the following commodities from Türkiye:
- honey bees
- unprocessed apiculture by-products
- used beekeeping equipment
- apiculture products in honeycomb intended for human consumption
These restrictions are given effect through the following safeguard declarations, published today on our topical issues page:
- Declaration of special measures: Türkiye Tropilaelaps mite (England)
- Declaration of special measures: Türkiye Tropilaelaps mite (Wales)
- Declaration of special measures: Türkiye Tropilaelaps mite (Scotland)
These safeguard measures apply from 4 September 2026. They will apply until they are revoked or amended.
Contact point for enquiries
Email: imports@apha.gov.uk
Imports and EU Trade Team