Modification of customs duties applicable to imports of certain goods originating in or exported directly or indirectly from Russia and Belarus

The European Parliament adopted by 411 votes to 100, with 78 abstentions, a legislative resolution on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the modification of customs duties applicable to imports of certain goods originating in or exported directly or indirectly from the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus.

The European Parliament adopted the Commission's proposal at first reading without amendment.

The proposal provides for a 50% increase in customs duties on agricultural products originating in Russia and Belarus that were not yet subject to additional duties. This measure aims to end dependency on imports from Russia and prevent circumvention of these measures through Belarus. These imports, particularly of fertilisers, make the EU vulnerable to possible coercive measures adopted by Russia and therefore pose a risk to the EU's food security.

The proposal also provides for the introduction, for the years 2025-2026, of a customs duty of 6.5% on nitrogen fertilisers imported from Russia and Belarus, to which would be added a tax of between EUR 40 and 45 per tonne. These duties will reach 430 euros per tonne by 2028.

The proposed tariff measures will also allow for the further diversification of supply from third countries.

With a view to ensuring a regular supply of quality fertilisers for agriculture in the Union and to ensuring that fertilisers remain available to Union farmers at an affordable price, the proposal includes provisions for monitoring and, where appropriate, mitigating measures in the event of a substantial increase in fertiliser prices.