European Parliament committee approves 50% increase in tariffs on agricultural products from Russia and Belarus

The European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade has endorsed a European Commission proposal to raise EU tariffs by 50% on certain agricultural products from Russia and Belarus that are not yet subject to other duties. The new tariffs will apply to goods such as sugar, vinegar, flour, and animal feed. The move aims to reduce the EU’s reliance on imports from these countries and bolster domestic production, particularly in the fertilizer sector, which is struggling due to low-priced imports. The decision was announced by the Parliament’s press service on May 15, 2025.

The approved text outlines a gradual tariff increase, reaching €430 per ton by 2028. These measures are expected to significantly curb imports of the targeted goods from Russia and Belarus, whether exported directly or indirectly. Rapporteur on Russia, Inese Vaidere, emphasized that the tariffs aim to prevent the European market from being used to fund Russia’s war efforts against Ukraine, as profits from these exports support its military actions.

The European Commission has been tasked with monitoring potential price increases that could harm the EU’s internal market or agricultural sector and taking steps to mitigate any adverse effects. This decision builds on existing EU policies, as tariffs on most agricultural products, including grain, from Russia and Belarus have been in place since July 2024. Ukraine, Poland, and the Baltic states have long advocated for a complete ban on such imports.

The proposal will face a final vote at the European Parliament’s plenary session in Brussels on May 22. If approved, the new tariffs will further diversify production within the EU, strengthen economic pressure on Russia and Belarus, and support the EU’s strategic goals of enhancing food security and reducing dependence on unfriendly nations.

Tags: Russia, EU, sugar, flour, agricultural products, fertilizers, restrictions