On June 20, the Rosselkhoznadzor introduced temporary restrictions on bumblebee imports into Russia from the EU countries due to the lack of confirmation by the European side of ensuring the epizootic and veterinary and sanitary welfare of insects.
Earlier, the Service was contacted by the Association of Entomologists and Bumblebee Breeders, which expressed concern about the possibility of importing viruses and pathogens with bumblebee families and accompanying food in the hives, which can cause significant harm to crops grown in greenhouses, as well as spread among agricultural workers and consumers of products.
To discuss this situation and confirm the safety of insects supplied to Russia, the Russian agency requested negotiations with the EC Directorate General for Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE).
However, the Rosselkhoznadzor has not yet received a response from the foreign competent authority.
Restrictive measures were taken before a video meeting with European colleagues and the provision of official guarantees of the well-being of the territory of origin, the absence of clinical symptoms and suspected diseases in bumblebees before shipment, as well as information on the certification procedure.
Source: fsvps.gov.ru