Russia bans Armenian apples, eggplants and dried fruit imports

Russia's Rosselkhoznadzor has banned imports of potatoes, eggplants, apples, pears, quince and dried fruit from Armenia effective 3 June 2026. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has pledged state subsidies for exporters affected by the ban.

Russia's federal veterinary and phytosanitary surveillance authority, Rosselkhoznadzor, announced import bans that take effect on 3 June 2026. The list of prohibited goods includes potatoes from Armenia, eggplants, seeds and fruits — including apples, pears and quince — as well as dried fruit.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said in response that the government would provide subsidies to all exporters directly affected by the new Russian trade barriers. This is not the first time Russia has restricted Armenian agricultural product imports this year, signalling continued cooling of relations between the two countries.

Armenia has in recent years actively sought alternative markets in Europe and elsewhere, but Russia has remained a significant trading partner. The new restrictions are forcing Armenian agricultural producers to quickly reorient and find buyers in other countries.