On August 6, 2014, President Vladimir Putin signed an “Executive Order On Applying Certain Special Economic Measures to Ensure the Security of the Russian Federation.” The order places restrictions on food and agricultural imports into Russia from countries that have imposed sanctions against Russia over its actions in eastern Ukraine. As we previously reported, the United States, the European Union and other countries continue to apply pressure to Russia through increased economic sanctions. Under Putin’s order, certain imports of food and agricultural products will be banned or limited for up to one year.
Earlier today, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev issued a statement elaborating on implementation of the import ban. Effective immediately and for the next 12 months, the import ban prohibits Russian importation of beef, pork, fruits and vegetables, poultry, fish, cheese, milk and dairy products from the EU, U.S., Australia, Canada and Norway.
In addition to the food import ban, Prime Minister Medvedev listed numerous other actions under consideration, including an airspace ban against European and U.S. airlines, as well as protective measures for the Russian aircraft, shipbuilding and auto industries.
Contact Us
If you have questions concerning the applicability of these import restrictions to your business or require specific advice on handling transactions, please contact Cortney Morgan in Husch Blackwell’s Washington, D.C. office at 202.378.2389 or Linda Tiller in Husch Blackwell’s Kansas City office at 816.983.8223.