Possible Russian import ban on Dutch tulips and dairy products

14.10.2013

Question for written answer P-011656-13
to the Commission
Rule 117
Ria Oomen-Ruijten (PPE)

Against the background of strained relations between the Netherlands and Russia, sparked by the arrest of Greenpeace activists protesting against Arctic oil drilling and an incident with a Russian diplomat in the Netherlands, Russian officials hinted on 9 October 2013 that Russia may ban the import of Dutch tulips and dairy products.

1. Is the Commission aware of Russian announcements about a possible import ban on Dutch products?

2. In light of the bilateral agreements in force between the EU and Russia, and Russia’s responsibilities stemming from its accession to the WTO, how would the Commission assess the legal basis for a possible import ban on Dutch tulips and dairy products?

3. How would the Commission assess the claim that, in the current circumstances, a possible import ban on Dutch products would, in essence, be a political pressure tool with which to punish a Member State?

4. What steps will the Commission take to protect Dutch exporters from the negative consequences of a possible ban on their products?

OJ C 218, 10/07/2014