Effective on June 1, 2023, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) will no longer be accepting imports of aquatic animals, including European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata), exported from Türkiye to Canada for food service and retail use for human consumption, unless they are fully eviscerated. Eviscerated finfish, including gilthead seabream and European seabass for human consumption are still eligible for entry.

Importers are advised that no new permits will be issued for aquatic animals from Türkiye for the end uses of food service and retail use. However, importers that hold valid import permits and have consignments either on route or procured, and that have been certified by Türkiye will be allowed entry to Canada until May 31, 2023. As of June 1, 2023, imports will be refused entry into Canada.

This suspension will be in place until further notice. For any questions or concerns, please contact your local CFIA district office.

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