Tariffs on nitrogen-based fertilisers will gradually increase over three years — from the current 6.5% to an effective rate of around 100%, essentially halting trade. For agricultural products, an additional 50% duty will be imposed.
The new tariff regime is expected to take effect on July 1, 2025.
In 2023, over 70% of fertilisers used in the EU were nitrogen-based — the specific type now targeted. Russia accounted for 25% of EU imports of such fertilisers, valued at €1.3 billion.
Russian and Belarusian grain was already hit with prohibitive duties last year. The latest decision targets the remaining 15% of Russian agri-imports, previously duty-free — including meat, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables, worth around €380 million.
The European Commission stated that these imports — especially fertilisers — made the EU vulnerable to potential coercion from Russia that could threaten food security across the bloc.
In 2023, the EU imported €92 million worth of agricultural products and €30 million in fertilisers from Belarus.
The Commission emphasized that the tariffs will help support domestic production and promote supply diversification. The regulation also includes mitigation measures in case fertiliser prices rise significantly for EU farmers.
Importantly, the tariffs will not affect the transit of Russian agricultural and fertiliser exports to third countries. The EU has avoided sanctioning such exports to avoid disrupting global markets, especially in developing nations.
The European Parliament approved the tariff hikes with 411 votes in favour, 100 against, and 78 abstentions.
thepigsite.com