Russia expands restrictions on fish imports from Armenia

Russia has expanded restrictions on imports of fish products from Armenia, the country's Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Rosselkhoznadzor) announced.

The agency said that, citing identified violations, it had asked Armenian authorities to suspend certification of all fish products destined for Russia, with the exception of products from two companies that participated directly in the inspection process — MF Export LLC and Invest Plus LLC, Caliber.Az reports per Russian media. 

The latest measure adds to a series of import restrictions Russia has imposed on Armenian agricultural products in recent weeks.

Rosselkhoznadzor first introduced restrictions on imports from Armenia on May 22, beginning with a ban on flowers. Additional temporary restrictions followed on May 30, covering fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, leafy greens and strawberries.

From June 2, the restrictions were extended to include stone fruits such as cherries, sweet cherries, apricots, plums, peaches and nectarines, as well as fresh grapes.

Beginning June 3, Russia also imposed restrictions on imports of pome fruits, eggplants, potatoes and dried fruits.

In addition, Rosselkhoznadzor required Armenia from June 2 to suspend certification of live fish and fish products intended for export to Russia.

By Sabina Mammadli