EU imposes higher tariffs on Russian and Belarusian cereals and oilseeds to prevent market destabilization

In response to concerns over destabilization of the EU market and efforts to finance its war of aggression against Ukraine, the EU has announced that it will impose higher tariffs on cereals, oilseeds, and other selected products from Russia and Belarus. These tariffs are set to take effect on July 1.

The EU Commission is concerned that cheap agricultural exports from Russia could drive down prices for EU farmers and exacerbate existing tensions in the region. The new tariffs are intended to prevent these effects by effectively stopping the import of these goods.

While the decision to impose additional tariffs is controversial, the EU aims to avoid impacting Russian exports to other regions and causing price hikes that could lead to food insecurity, especially in poor countries. According to Eurostat data, the value of grain imports from Russia to the EU has been rising steadily in recent years. However, this measure is not intended as a restriction on agricultural imports or exports between Europe and other regions.

The original intention of the EU was not to restrict trade but rather protect its markets and prevent further destabilization. The tariffs are a specific measure taken in response to certain concerns and safeguard the interests of EU farmers and consumers.