EU proposes new tariffs on Russian imports to curb reliance
On Tuesday evening, the European Commission adopted a proposal to impose tariffs on a range of agricultural products from Russia and Belarus, as well as certain nitrogen fertilizers. However, this is not a done deal yet. Unlike sanctions, the decision by member states does not have to be unanimous.
The European Commission has proposed introducing tariffs on additional agricultural products and nitrogen fertilizers imported from Russia and Belarus. This decision concerns the remaining 15% of agricultural products that have not been subject to increased tariffs so far.
The European Parliament must now consider the EC proposal, and it must be accepted by EU member states. Approval by 15 out of the 27 member states is required for its adoption, meaning the decision does not need to be unanimous.
If the proposal is adopted, all agricultural products imported from Russia will be subject to EU tariffs. The goal of this initiative is to reduce the European Union's dependence on Russian and Belarusian goods and to limit Moscow's financial revenues from their export.
"These tariffs are carefully calibrated to serve multiple goals. We aim to weaken further Russia’s war economy, while reducing EU dependencies, supporting our industry, and preserving global food security. We will take every step necessary to protect our fertilizers industry and farmers," commented EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič on the proposal.
Member states' appeal
As early as November of last year, some member states, including Poland and the Baltic countries, called for higher tariffs on Russian and Belarusian products.
Politicians pointed out that the export of fertilizers from Russia and Belarus to the Union increased by 52% year-on-year in the first eight months of 2024, generating an income of 1.2 billion euros ($1.25 billion), with most of these funds being used to support Russian aggression in Ukraine.
Higher tariffs, however, will not affect Russian exports of agricultural products and fertilizers to third countries or the transit of these products from Russia and Belarus to third countries through EU territory. This is because the Union is committed to promoting food security worldwide, particularly in developing countries.
This means the operations of buying and selling Russian agricultural products remain unchanged, as does their storage in EU customs warehouses, transport on EU ships, or the provision of insurance and financial services.
