Kazakh grain may also fall under the EU export duty

The European Union is preparing to impose duties on grain imports from Russia and Belarus. This is happening amid protests by European farmers. Kazakh grain may also be subject to duties, as exports to the EU pass through the territory of Russia.

According to MP Aidarbek Khodzhanazarov, a fee of 95 euros per metric ton of grain is planned to be introduced, as well as a 50% duty on oilseeds and their processed products.

“Given the importance of the European markets for the export of Kazakh grain and its processed products, I have sent a request to the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan. I want the responsible authorities to receive explanations from the authorized body of the European Union and, if necessary, to take timely measures to prevent the extension of import duties on Kazakh grain,” Khodzhanazarov said.

The MP proposed that the EU make an exception for Kazakh grain. A decision on this issue is currently pending.

“A duty of this magnitude may finally stop grain exports to European countries from our farmers and is a risk of losing traditional markets in Europe. And in the domestic market, prices will fall due to oversupply. In turn, this will lead to dumping on the domestic market by the same neighboring countries,” the MP summarized.

According to the Bureau of National Statistics, Kazakhstan exported 7.2 million tons of wheat in 2023 for $1.8 billion.

Tags: Kazakhstan, grain, EU