The European Union has confirmed it will not lift tariffs on fertilizers from Russia and Belarus, despite calls from some member states for a reconsideration of this policy.
A senior EU diplomat stated, “We do not anticipate taking this route. Our ongoing efforts are aligned with the sanctions already imposed against Russia in this context. We expect no changes.”
This announcement follows a letter from Hungary’s Minister of Agriculture, István Nagy, who urged EU commissioners to temporarily suspend tariffs on Russian and Belarusian products, particularly phosphorus and potassium fertilizers.
Nagy cited rising global fertilizer prices and supply uncertainties due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as reasons for his appeal. He warned that these factors could jeopardize farmers across the EU and lead to increased food prices.
The Hungarian minister further noted that without access to affordable imports, Hungary could face significant crop losses, as the country only produces nitrogen fertilizers domestically and relies on foreign sources for phosphorus and potassium fertilizers.
New tariffs on agricultural products and fertilizers from Russia and Belarus are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, following a decision by the Council of the European Union.
On January 28, 2025, the European Commission proposed this trade measure as part of efforts to weaken the military economy of Russia and the economies of third countries involved in aggression against Ukraine.
The EU has decided to uphold tariffs on fertilizers from Russia and Belarus, rejecting calls from Hungary for a temporary suspension. This decision comes amid rising fertilizer prices and supply issues linked to the conflict in Ukraine, which could impact farmers and food prices across the EU.