Fur exports to Russian Federation
22.3.2023
Question for written answer E-000983/2023
to the Commission
Rule 138
Ville Niinistö (Verts/ALE)
The EU has imposed various sanctions in response to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. These include a ban on the export of luxury goods to Russia, including articles of apparel, clothing accessories and other articles of furskin with a value exceeding EUR 300 per item[1].
Eurostat trade data for 2022 reveal that exports of fur apparel to Russia have continued throughout the conflict. Moreover, significant quantities of raw, tanned and dressed furskins are still being exported to Russia from Member States including Finland, Greece and Lithuania. For example, between April 2022 and December 2022, raw furskins valued at nearly EUR 3 040 000 were exported from Finland to Russia.
- 1.Could the Commission confirm whether these goods are being exported legally and, if they are not, whether it will be directing Member States to take action against those breaking the sanction regime?
- 2.Why is the export of raw furskins and tanned and dressed furskins to Russia for use in furriery still permitted? Does the Commission intend to remedy this by adding these non-essential products to the list of restricted goods?
Submitted: 22.3.2023
- [1] Annex XVIII, Council Regulation (EU) No 833/2014.