The Association of European Fruit and Vegetable Manufacturers (Eucofel) called on the European Commission to open export to the Russian market.
An open letter asking to resume dialogue with Russia was signed by representatives of the fruit and vegetable sector of Spain, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Poland and Portugal. The request was addressed to the head of the European Commission Janusz Wojciechowski in Brussels. The opening of the Russian market, according to Eucofel, will mitigate the blow to the industry from the spread of coronavirus.
“Now more than ever, a joint decision of the European Union and Russia on the resumption of food exports is needed,” insist Eucofel.
In addition, producers of fruits and vegetables are asked to introduce temporary support measures for producers, which would guarantee an adequate level of product prices, restore market balance and eliminate violations. Eucofel also requires changes to the rules for organizations that could help reduce some costs and slow down the rising cost of production. Including increase by 70% financing of the operating fund and provide seasonal workers with spheres where they are needed.
Now Russian counter-sanctions, restricting the supply of certain types of agricultural products from the United States, the European Union, Canada, Australia, Norway, Albania, Montenegro, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Ukraine, apply to almost all types of vegetables and fruits, with the exception of potato, onion, pea and corn, as well as frozen and dried vegetables imported for the production of baby food.