Russia awaits Armenian action plan before easing import restrictions

(Horizon Media / YEREVAN) – Russia is waiting for Armenia to submit the results of an investigation into alleged sanitary violations involving Armenian products, along with a plan detailing measures to bring exports into compliance with Eurasian Economic Union standards.

Russia’s Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance, Rosselkhoznadzor, told Izvestia that any decision on easing or lifting the current restrictions would depend on information provided by the Armenian side.

The Russian agency said it expects Yerevan to present the findings of its investigation, details of corrective measures already undertaken and an action plan aimed at ensuring compliance with the EAEU’s veterinary and phytosanitary requirements.

Russia has recently introduced restrictions on imports of several categories of Armenian goods after reporting violations of sanitary and safety standards. The measures have affected a range of products, including mineral water, alcoholic beverages, fruits, vegetables and dairy products.

The issue was also raised during an August 13 meeting between Russian Agriculture Minister Oksana Lut and Armenian Economy Minister Gevorg Papoyan.

Lut said ensuring the safety and conformity of Armenian agricultural products remains a key condition for restoring their access to the Russian market.

Among the requirements highlighted by the Russian side were greater reliance on producers’ own raw materials, tighter controls over pesticide use, improved traceability throughout supply chains and compliance with other mandatory EAEU standards.

The Armenian side has yet to publicly announce when the requested investigation and action plan will be completed or when the affected exports could resume.