China’s import restrictions prompt Russia to tighten GM testing of rapeseed oil

Russia has revised its standards for testing rapeseed and processed rapeseed products for genetically modified organisms (GMs) following restrictions imposed by China on Russian rapeseed oil imports. According to Rosselkhoznadzor, accompanying documents certifying that vegetable oil products are GM-free will now be issued only after laboratory tests confirm the absence of GMs. The new requirements are intended to reduce the risk of further restrictions and ensure stable exports to the Chinese market.

Supply disruptions began in February 2026, when Chinese customs authorities detected GM components not registered in China in a shipment of Russian rapeseed oil. Over the following months, China restricted imports from 23 Russian processing plants, removing them from its CIFER registry of approved suppliers. Another 35 facilities were placed under enhanced monitoring due to the risk of similar restrictions.

Novosibirsk Region was among the hardest-hit areas, with potential revenue losses from rapeseed oil sales estimated at more than RUB 3.5 bln (approximately $44 mln). According to regional lawmaker Konstantin Tereshchenko, Chinese buyers continued purchasing the product, but both shipment volumes and prices declined. In particular, the price fell from approximately $500 to $313 per ton, significantly weakening export profitability for local producers.

China remains a key destination for Russian rapeseed oil, making stricter quality requirements an additional risk for the country’s processing industry. Meanwhile, Russian companies continue to expand exports of vegetable oils and fats. According to preliminary data from Russia’s Federal Customs Service, exports of these products from Novosibirsk Region increased by 52% in 2026 despite restrictions in the Chinese market.

Amid certification difficulties, Russian exporters are seeking to diversify their markets, targeting India, Indonesia, the Middle East and Latin America. However, replacing the Chinese market in the short term will be difficult given its significant role in Russian rapeseed oil exports.

Tags: Russia, China, rapeseed oil, GM