Germany clarifies EU ban on export of luxury goods to Russia

Germany’s Federal Customs Service has clarified the enforcement of European Union sanctions restricting the export of luxury goods to Russia, emphasising that the ban covers both direct and indirect deliveries.

According to the agency, the restrictions apply to luxury items valued at more than €300 per piece. The prohibited list includes jewellery, watches, leather accessories, handbags, clothing, premium wines and other goods exceeding the established price threshold, Russian news agency RIA Novosti reported.

German customs officials stressed that the ban extends beyond direct sales or shipments to Russia. It also covers indirect transfers, including situations where goods are supplied through third parties with the expectation that they will ultimately be delivered to Russia or used there.

Under the rules, it is forbidden to sell, supply, transport or export such goods to individuals, companies, organisations, or other entities in Russia, or for use within the country, unless the items fall under specific exemptions provided in the sanctions framework.

The customs service also clarified that sending goods via intermediaries or third parties would be treated as an attempt to circumvent sanctions and would therefore be subject to enforcement measures.

Similar warnings have previously been issued by Austrian customs authorities. They cautioned that Russian travellers departing from Austria with luxury items worth more than €300 per piece could face confiscation of the goods and legal proceedings. In such cases, passengers may be denied boarding and held liable for violating sanctions regulations.

By Tamilla Hasanova