Russia may ban flower imports via Armenia over quarantine violations

Russia’s Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Rosselkhoznadzor) has warned it may impose a ban on the import of cut flowers from third countries transiting through Armenia, starting June 16. The move comes amid a sharp rise in quarantine violations linked to such imports.

According to the agency, inspections in 2025 have revealed 13 instances of western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis Pergande) infestation in flower shipments certified by Armenian authorities. Western flower thrips are classified as a quarantine pest in Russia due to their potential to damage a wide variety of crops, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

Rosselkhoznadzor noted a significant surge in flower imports from Armenia this year. So far, 52 million cut flowers have been inspected—a 49.7% increase compared to the same period in 2024, when 34.7 million flowers were imported.

“In the absence of necessary response measures and continued detection of quarantine objects, Rosselkhoznadzor will be forced to impose temporary restrictions on the import of flower products to Russia accompanied by Armenian phytosanitary certificates from third countries from June 16, 2025,” the service said.

The Russian regulator also reported repeated cases of quarantine pests found in other plant products, suggesting broader weaknesses in Armenia’s export controls.

A formal letter has been sent to Armenia’s Food Safety Inspection Body urging it to take comprehensive steps to enhance phytosanitary oversight and ensure the safety of goods destined for the Russian market.

By Sabina Mammadli