Russia Blocks Kazakh Grain Transit Amid Plant Health Dispute

Kazakh rice and corn exporters face challenges shipping to Russia due to alleged plant health violations. Russia, a key transit route, has imposed restrictions impacting trade. Despite Kazakhstan's attempts to continue exports, tensions persist, affecting market dynamics and bilateral agricultural negotiations.

Kazakh rice and corn exporters are encountering shipment issues to Russia, as the Russian state agricultural watchdog accuses Kazakhstan of breaching plant health regulations. This marks an expansion of Russia's block on grain transit from Kazakhstan.

Russia serves as a significant transit path for Kazakh exports like oil and uranium. Trade tensions are raising market concerns about the steady supply of these commodities. The restrictions have led to a block on phytosanitary certificates for various agricultural goods from Kazakhstan.

The Kazakh government, contesting the block, has called for substantiation of the alleged violations. Despite assurance from Kazakhstan's state railroad company for continued grain exports, the Russian decision has already disrupted shipments, causing complaints among the affected exporters.

(With inputs from agencies.)