Agricultural Trade Tensions Escalate Between Russia and Kazakhstan

Russia instituted a ban on the transit and import of Kazakh grain and other agricultural products on phytosanitary grounds. Kazakhstan claims this as retaliation for its earlier ban on Russian grain supplies. Amidst a major grain harvest, Kazakhstan is seeking clarification from Russia, highlighting economic tensions within the Eurasian Economic Union.

Russia has effectively banned the transit and import of Kazakh grain and certain other agricultural products, citing phytosanitary concerns. This move is interpreted by Kazakh exporters as retaliation for Kazakhstan's previous ban on Russian grain supplies.

Kazakhstan is on track to harvest a record 27.7 million metric tons of grain this year, with an anticipated 9 million tons earmarked for export. These exports traverse Russian seaports to reach Europe and Turkey. However, starting September 23, Russia's agricultural watchdog announced that its systems would block the issuance of phytosanitary certificates for various Kazakh products, including grain, sunflower seeds, tomatoes, and peppers.

This lack of certification essentially prevents these goods from crossing the border. The Russian agency emphasized that this measure aims to protect Russia's phytosanitary status and support its agricultural sectors. Meanwhile, Kazakhstan's Grain Union head, Evgeny Karabanov, sees this as a stern warning from Russia to defend its economic interests.

(With inputs from agencies.)