Russia has implemented an import ban on fresh fruits and vegetables from Armenia, as communicated by Rosselkhoznadzor to the Armenian Food Safety Inspectorate. This decision, effective from July 15, arises from concerns over food safety, following the detection of pesticide residues in Armenian tomatoes and apples that exceed the permissible levels established by the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU). The notification highlighted repeated instances of such violations between April and early June.
The directive from Rosselkhoznadzor, underscored by Deputy Chief Anton Karmazin, mandates Armenia to halt agricultural exports to Russia until corrective actions are taken. An 18-page list detailing the Armenian exporters affected by this ban accompanies the letter, though it has not been made publicly available.
The move is expected to impact numerous Armenian farmers and greenhouse operators reliant on the Russian market. This development is part of a broader context of strained relations between Russia and Armenia, with the latter's westward political realignment and discussions of exiting the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) further complicating matters.
Source: azatutyun.am