23.04.2025, 11:37
Rosselkhoznadzor lifts ban on grain imports from Kazakhstan
Russia officially lifted the ban on the import of wheat, lentils, and seeds from Kazakhstan

As of April 22, 2025, the Russian Federation has lifted temporary restrictions on the import of plant products from Kazakhstan. This is stated in an official document published on the website of Rosselkhoznadzor and signed by the agency’s Deputy Head, Yulia Shvabauskene.
It should be recalled that the restrictions were introduced in October 2024 and applied to a wide range of quarantine-regulated products, including soft and hard wheat, lentils, oil flax seeds, and sunflower seeds intended for sowing (originating from third countries). The import of certain types of vegetables and melons—specifically tomatoes, peppers, and fresh melons—was also temporarily banned.
The reason for the introduction of the ban was the detection of quarantine organisms in the imported products, which raised concerns at the Russian phytosanitary authority. During the validity of the restrictions, only limited transit of grain through Russia was allowed, provided certain conditions were met. These included the mandatory issuance of a phytosanitary certificate by the Kazakh side for the final destination country and the direct transshipment of the grain from rail cars into the holds of ships.
The removal of these restrictions effectively restores the previous trade and logistics arrangements between the two countries in the agricultural sector. This decision is especially important ahead of the active export season, during which countries intensify shipments abroad.
Agricultural experts note that lifting the ban could boost external trade and reduce logistical costs for Kazakh producers.
🔑 Key takeaways:
🔹 Russia officially lifted the ban on the import of wheat, lentils, and seeds from Kazakhstan
🔹 The restrictions had been in place since October 2024 due to phytosanitary violations