Russia claims measures on Armenian goods are “routine process,” not restrictions

Russia has claimed that its recent bans targeting Armenian goods do not constitute import restrictions and are merely part of a “routine process.”

“We are not imposing any restrictions on Armenian imports at all,” Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk told RIA Novosti during the 2026 St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), referring to measures targeting Armenian agricultural goods.

“Normal, routine work is underway related to the fact that a new harvest has now been collected and new products have appeared, and naturally some issues arise in the course of work,” he said, adding that such processes happen regularly.

“This always happens from time to time. We are carrying out routine work,” Overchuk said.

He emphasized that inspections of the new harvest are aimed at protecting consumers and preventing potential risks.

“We must protect Russian consumers. A new harvest has arrived, and we need to see what is being brought to us—whether there are pests, diseases, or anything that could pose a risk both to consumers and to our production. It is clear that something has been detected,” he said.

Russia has been imposing growing restrictions in recent weeks on the import of Armenian goods, ranging from flowers and certain fruits and vegetables to mineral water, citing phytosanitary violations.

The Armenian government has rolled out relief programs for exporters to help them find new markets and avoid losses.