Finland Urges Keeping Tariffs on Russian Fertilizers – Here’s Why It Matters.

Statement from Finland’s Minister of Agriculture and Forestry

According to UATV: Finland’s Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Sari Essayah, has stressed the need to maintain elevated customs duties on Russian fertilizers, despite current market difficulties. She made the remarks during a meeting held on March 30 in Brussels. According to Essayah, the EU’s decision to raise these tariffs will yield positive results in the long run.

The Minister’s Rationale

Among the arguments presented, the minister stated that lowering the duties would not offer an effective way out of the current situation, as it would only provide Russia with more funds to sustain its war effort.

“Within the EU, we have increased customs duties, and I believe this will also be beneficial in the future,” noted Sari Essayah.

Additionally, Finland and Sweden have proposed a ban on maritime services for Russian tankers. This issue has become especially relevant in light of Russian fertilizer imports into the EU and the export of luxury goods to Russia.

Finland’s stance reflects the broader EU approach to sanctions against Russia amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. Minister Essayah emphasized the importance of maintaining economic pressure on Russia, which could prove decisive in shifting the dynamics in the region. The proposed ban on maritime services for tankers is also a key step toward reducing Europe’s reliance on Russian resources and tightening economic measures in response to Russia’s aggression.