EU raises tariffs on agricultural imports from Russia and Belarus: when will new restrictions come into effect

The European Union is officially introducing new tariffs on agricultural products and fertilizers from Russia and Belarus from July 1, 2025. The decision was made by the EU Council, increasing economic pressure on the aggressor countries to limit their ability to finance the war against Ukraine.

This was reported by the press service of the Council of the EU.

It is noted that all agricultural goods from the Russian Federation, without exception, are subject to new tariffs. This especially applies to nitrogen fertilizers, one of the key elements of Russian agricultural exports. According to the EU, the tariffs will affect about 15% of agricultural imports from Russia in 2023.

The EU is imposing the following duties:

• Initial level: 6.5% + 40–45 euros per ton.
• Final (until 2028): 6.5% + 315–430 euros per ton.
• Additionally: a further 50% duty on the value of some products that were not previously subject to sanctions is imposed.

These measures are being introduced as part of a three-year transition period during which tariffs will gradually increase. European institutions promise strict control over their implementation to protect farmers and the agricultural sector within the EU.

Why is this important?

Financial blow to Russia: reduced agricultural export revenues will reduce the Kremlin’s ability to finance military aggression.

Reducing EU dependence: new tariffs will stimulate domestic production in the European Union and reduce strategic vulnerability to Russian and Belarusian supplies.

Increasing sanctions pressure: this is a continuation of the EU’s general policy of isolating the aggressor’s economy through trade policy instruments.

Recall that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the 18th package of sanctions against Russia. It is mainly aimed at the Russian energy and banking sectors , and also provides for strengthening export bans and control over the circumvention of the sanctions regime.

It was previously reported that the European Union is preparing the 18th package of sanctions against Russia , focused on reducing the Kremlin’s energy revenues and weakening the military-industrial complex of the aggressor state.

By the way, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot expressed hope that the European Commission will present the 18th package of sanctions against Russia by the end of June.

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