Russia Sets Conditions for Kazakhstan's Grain Transit, Contradicting Minister's Statement

Russia's agricultural watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor has clarified conditions for Kazakhstan's grain transit, contradicting Kazakhstan's Agriculture Minister Aidarbek Saparov's statement about lifted restrictions, reports Orda.kz.

Rosselkhoznadzor reiterated its October 17, 2024, import ban on wheat, lentils, and flax seeds, citing increased detection of pests and pathogenic bacteria.

The transit of grain products of Kazakh origin to third countries through the territory of Russia is possible only through certain sea ports, the infrastructure of which allows for direct transshipment of grain to a vessel, eliminating the risk of the spread of quarantine pests throughout the territory of Russia, the federal service explained.

This statement contrasts with Minister Saparov's assurance following his Moscow visit:

I met with the Minister of Agriculture, the head of Rosselkhoznadzor. Questions about grain, legumes, and oilseeds have been resolved. The wagons are not standing at the transshipment point like before. We quickly resolved this, and they are shipping the exports.

Rosselkhoznadzor is now working with Kazakhstan's Agriculture Ministry to develop additional phytosanitary compliance measures within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), particularly investigating deliveries to companies not involved in foreign economic activity.

Original Author: Alina Pak