Russia is imposing stricter import regulations on Serbian apples to put an end to fraud and illegal imports of European apples, reports the Russian inspection service. Serbia understands the measure. A batch of Polish apples has been destroyed. The apples were found at a market after arriving from the wholesale market in Moscow. Meanwhile, Russian supermarkets are considering investing in new branches in the Romanian market.
Stricter import regulations Serbian apples
Russia has tightened its import regulations for Serbian apples, as reported by the Russian phytosanitary service to the news agency Tass. This is the result of suspicions of European products being imported under Serbian labels to overcome the stricter controls. "We inspected 33 batches of Serbian apples and only one had authentic Serb documents," stated the inspection service. Bulgaria, according to Russian inspectors, faces a similar threat.
On the Serbian side there is understanding for the measures. "We understand why these measures are being introduced, especially when you look at how many apples reach Russia under the guise of Serbian labels," said Dejan Delic, of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce. He also believes the measure will serve to protect Serbian apple growers, as fraud could pose unfair competition and "harm the reputation of Serbian products."
Polish apples destroyed
According to the Russian phytosanitary service, an inspection carried out at a market in Chelyabinsk, Central Russia, led to the discovery of various batches of Polish apples, amounting to a total of 1.4 tonnes. The fruit had been purchased by the traders on a wholesale market in Moscow. The products were seized and destroyed on site.
Russian retail to Europe
According to reports, Russian retailers aim to escape the difficult situation on the domestic market. To this end, they have set eyes on Romania. While supermarkets in Russia are struggling, the sector is growing in Romania. Supermarket chain Berezka opened three branches in Bucharest and has plans for two more before the end of the year. There are different plans for shopping centres in Romania. The country is one of the poorest countries in the EU.