Kyrgyzstan apple import ban: EU warns it may breach WTO rules

The European Union has voiced concern over Kyrgyzstan's plan to restrict apple imports, warning it could conflict with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules and trade commitments. Despite this, the Kyrgyz cabinet adopted Resolution No. 720 on 27 October, introducing a temporary ban on apple imports until 1 February 2027.

According to The Diplomat, the EU said WTO rules allow such trade restrictions only in exceptional circumstances and under strict conditions. It warned that a sudden ban could send a negative signal to European apple exporters and other firms trading with Kyrgyzstan, and cited the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the EU and Kyrgyzstan.

The ban covers apples from third countries and EAEU member states, while transit shipments and consignments sent before the resolution took effect are exempt. Poland supplied 55.2% of Kyrgyzstan's 6,438.9 tonnes of apple imports in January–August 2026. The source does not confirm that the EU has launched a formal WTO dispute.