Expanded import ban on agricultural products from the identified hostile nation by Latvia persists
In a significant move, Latvia's legislature has voted to extend the ban on agricultural and feed imports from Russia and Belarus. The extension, passed with a majority of 78 votes in favour and 9 votes against, is part of Latvia's ongoing economic security policy and an important additional element in the European Union's common sanctions policy against aggressor states.
The existing ban, which was first implemented in 2021, has been extended until July 1st, 2023. This decision comes as a response to the ongoing aggression in Ukraine, a factor that has been cited as the reason for continued work on further sanctions and restrictions by the European Union.
All those voting against the extension were members of the opposition For Stability! party, excluding independent deputy Viktorija Pleškāne. Six Saeima deputies did not cast a vote either way in the extension vote.
The ban includes imports of cereals, oilseeds, and products derived from them, as well as animal feed products. Importing these products via third countries is also prohibited if they originate from Russia or Belarus. The European Union's increased customs tariffs on these imports have been in effect since July 1, 2022.
Kaspars Briškens, Chairman of the National Economy, Agrarian, Environmental and Regional Policy Committee, stated that the ban period can be extended further if necessary. He also emphasised that the ban is an important part of Latvia's economic security policy and a contribution to the European Union's common sanctions policy against aggressor states.
The decrease in imports of agricultural products from Russia and Belarus has been substantial. In the second half of last year, imports of cereal products decreased by 100 percent compared to the period before the import tariffs came into effect.
France and Italy have announced the extension of the import ban on agricultural and animal feed products from Russia and Belarus as part of the EU's 18th sanctions package against both countries in 2025. The European Union has already imposed extensive sanctions on Russia and its ally Belarus in response to Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.
The circumstances surrounding Russia's aggression in Ukraine have not changed, and work is ongoing for further proposals for sanctions and restrictions. The amendments indicate that the ongoing aggression in Ukraine is the reason for continued work on further sanctions and restrictions.
In conclusion, Latvia's decision to extend the ban on agricultural and feed imports from Russia and Belarus is a significant step in the ongoing common sanctions policy of the European Union against aggressor states. The decrease in imports of agricultural products from these countries highlights the effectiveness of these sanctions in deterring trade with aggressor states. As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, it is likely that further sanctions and restrictions will be considered by the European Union.
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