The European Union is preparing to introduce tariffs on grain imports from Russia and Belarus, which threatens Kazakhstan's exports to the EU.

Despite ongoing protests by European farmers, the European Union is planning to introduce tariffs on grain imports from Russia and Belarus. This situation poses a threat to Kazakhstan as well, believes Aidarbek Khodzhanazarov, a member of the Majilis of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

It is expected that the tariff on grains will amount to 95 euros per metric ton, and for oilseed crops and their processing - 50%.

According to Khodzhanazarov, this situation is also a threat to Kazakhstan, as it is an exporter of grain and its processed products to the EU through the territory of the Russian Federation.

“Considering the importance of European markets for the export of Kazakh grain and its processed products, I have sent a request to the Ministry of Agriculture of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Trade and Integration of Kazakhstan. I want the responsible authorities to receive clarification from the authorized body of the European Union and, if necessary, take appropriate measures to prevent the introduction of import duties on Kazakh grain,” said Khodzhanazarov.

Based on discussions with the EU, the proposal by the deputy on the transit of Kazakh grain products was included in the project. Currently, the approval procedure for the proposal from Kazakhstan is pending.

“Such a tariff could completely halt the export of grain from our agricultural producers to European countries and lead to the loss of traditional markets in Europe. This would also result in an oversupply in the domestic market and price reductions. As a result, we will face dumping from neighboring countries,” the deputy replied.