Decision to impose ‘temporary restrictions’ supposedly based on phytosanitary concerns, but comes amid tension over BRICS membership
Russia has introduced what it says are temporary restrictions on imports of various fruit and vegetables from Kazakhstan, citing food safety concerns.
As reported by East Fruit, Kazakhstan and Belarus have both recently blockaded Russia’s access to shipments of fresh produce including apples.
The latest move comes after Kazakhstan declined to join the bloc of emerging economies known as BRICS, which is currently under Russia’s presidency.
Russian agriculture watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor said it would introduce the restrictions on Kazakh products including tomatoes, peppers, and melons.
“The decision was made due to the failure of competent authorities in Kazakhstan to take action and in order to ensure the phytosanitary safety of the territory of Russia,” it said in a statement.
The next BRICS summit is takes place on 22-24 October in the Russian city of Kazan.
