Canadian beekeepers are sounding the alarm and demanding immediate government action as a deadly parasite continues to devastate honeybee populations across the country. The Canadian Beekeepers Federation has called for a complete ban on imports of non-North American bees to prevent further spread of the destructive varroa mite.
Beekeeping Industry in Crisis
The urgent plea came during a news conference in Ottawa on November 25, 2025, where industry leaders gathered to address what they describe as an escalating agricultural emergency. Peter Awram, Director of the Canadian Beekeepers Federation, joined Alberta Beekeepers Commission President Curtis Miedema and Conservative MP Arnold Viersen to present their case to the public and policymakers.
The varroa mite represents one of the most significant threats to honeybee health worldwide. These tiny parasites attach to bees, feeding on their fat stores and transmitting deadly viruses that can decimate entire colonies. The situation has reached critical levels in several Canadian provinces, prompting the desperate call for protective measures.
Call for Protective Legislation
Beekeeping advocates are specifically requesting that the federal government implement a ban on honeybee imports from outside North America. They argue that international bee shipments have introduced and spread resistant mite strains that Canadian beekeepers struggle to control with existing treatments.
Curtis Miedema emphasized the devastating economic impact the mite infestation is having on beekeeping operations nationwide. "Our industry cannot sustain these continued losses," he stated during the conference. "We need immediate action to protect what remains of our bee populations and the agricultural sectors that depend on them."
The beekeeping industry plays a crucial role in Canadian agriculture, with honeybees responsible for pollinating numerous crops worth billions of dollars annually. The decline in bee populations threatens not only honey production but also the stability of fruit, vegetable, and nut farming across the country.
Political Support and Next Steps
Conservative MP Arnold Viersen expressed strong support for the beekeepers' position, highlighting the need for swift parliamentary action. "This isn't just an industry issue—it's a food security issue," Viersen noted. "We must protect our pollinators to ensure our agricultural future."
The federation directors outlined several key measures they believe are necessary to combat the crisis:
- Immediate ban on non-North American bee imports
- Enhanced monitoring and reporting of mite infestations
- Increased research funding for mite-resistant bee breeds
- Support for beekeepers implementing biosecurity measures
The November 25th announcement marks a critical turning point in Canada's approach to pollinator protection. As the varroa mite continues to spread, the pressure mounts on government officials to respond with concrete policy changes that could determine the future of Canadian beekeeping and the agricultural industries it supports.
