[Background]

- Following the first import of "honey feed" (a blended feed containing honey) from China in July 2024, the Beekeepers Association, as a key stakeholder, raised the need for quarantine measures such as the designation of honey and pollen for beekeeping as quarantine items (August 8, 2024).
- Currently, the imported pollen for beekeeping is subject to plant quarantine and feed inspection, which checks for plant pests, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), feed standards, and harmful substances. However, there is no animal quarantine conducted to prevent the entry of bee diseases.

- When honey for beekeeping was first imported in 2024, it only underwent feed inspection before being allowed into the country, prompting concerns from the relevant associations.

*There is an urgent need to designate quarantine items and establish quarantine methods and procedures to ensure the safe importation of honey and pollen for beekeeping without the risk of disease.
- The government conducts animal quarantine and livestock disease prevention in accordance with the Livestock Infectious Disease Control Act to prevent the spread of contagious animal diseases, contribute to the development of livestock industries, maintain animal health, and enhance public health. It is essential for the government to include honey and pollen for beekeeping as designated quarantine items as part of animal quarantine measures to block the entry of foreign bee diseases.

[Regulatory Content]

- Add honey and pollen for beekeeping to the scope of quarantine items, designating them as designated quarantine items subject to animal quarantine under the Livestock Infectious Disease Control Act.