Russia Imposes Temporary Import Restrictions on Armenian Fresh Produce

Russia will introduce temporary restrictions on imports of fresh Armenian fruits and vegetables beginning May 30, 2026, according to an announcement by Rosselkhoznadzor, the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Supervision. The restrictions will apply to tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, greenery, and strawberries originating from Armenia until Russia and Armenia develop an appropriate safety protocol for shipped products.

The decision follows a week-long inspection conducted by Rosselkhoznadzor from May 21 to May 27, 2026, which identified multiple phytosanitary violations in Armenian agricultural facilities. The Russian regulator reported discovering quarantinable objects—pests or diseases deemed threatening to the Eurasian Economic Union member states—in greenhouses. The agency noted 181 documented cases of such violations during Armenian fruit and vegetable imports in 2026 alone.

Rosselkhoznadzor stated that the restrictions were implemented to ensure phytosanitary safety and protect Russia's agricultural territory from potential threats. The agency emphasized that the Armenian competent authority had not taken appropriate corrective measures in response to previously identified violations. The temporary nature of the restrictions suggests they will remain in effect until both countries establish protocols addressing the identified safety concerns.