Belarus lifts onion and potato ban amid EU tariff tensions
Belarus has lifted the embargo on the import of onions and potatoes from Western countries to alleviate vegetable shortages in stores. This decision is a response to the European Union's increase in tariffs.
What do you need to know?
- Belarus has lifted the import ban on onions, potatoes, apples, and cabbage from Western countries labeled as "unfriendly."
- The government in Minsk explains that lifting the embargo is a reaction to the European Union's increased tariffs on Belarusian agricultural products.
- The country has been experiencing potato shortages, related to the unprofitability of domestic sales and producers preferring to export to Russia.
Belarus has introduced changes to the list of products that cannot be imported from Western countries considered "unfriendly." The embargo established in 2021 excluded onions, apples, cabbage, and potatoes, which are considered symbols of Belarusian agriculture.
The government in Minsk emphasizes that this decision is a response to the EU's increase in tariffs on Belarusian agricultural products. Authorities claim they want to demonstrate "openness" and the "principle of good neighborliness."
What are the consequences of the potato shortage?
The independent portal Zerkalo.io reminds us that, in recent months, complaints about potato shortages have been reported from various regions of Belarus. This issue is partly due to rising production costs and the unprofitability of selling at low regulated domestic prices. In April, the government allowed price increases for potatoes, cabbage, and onions to improve the situation.
The leader of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, admitted on May 8 that the country is experiencing a noticeable potato shortage. He also accused producers of preferring to sell potatoes to Russia at higher prices.
