Türkiye has blocked the entry of more than 5,500 tonnes of seed potatoes from European Union member states and the United Kingdom, citing pest contamination. The rejected shipments represent roughly 20% of the EU’s total seed potato exports to Türkiye and have raised fears of escalating trade tensions.

Turkish authorities claim the consignments failed phytosanitary inspections upon arrival, detecting the presence of harmful pests. However, EU producers insist the shipments were certified pest-free through stringent pre-export testing procedures that adhere to international phytosanitary standards.

In response, Europe’s seed potato industry is calling for urgent technical discussions between Brussels and Ankara. Sector representatives stress the importance of a science-based dialogue to reconcile differences in pest detection methods and classification systems.

“Restoring mutual trust between the EU and Turkish authorities is critical to ensuring the continued flow of seed potatoes,” said an industry spokesperson. The sector warned that prolonged disruption could undermine agricultural planning in Türkiye and jeopardize broader economic cooperation.

As the standoff continues, European exporters and Turkish importers alike are monitoring the situation closely, seeking a resolution to avoid further trade disruptions during the critical planting season.