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As Ukraine crisis deepens, China lifts all wheat-import restrictions on Russia
- Agreement reflects deepening ties between Beijing and Moscow while addressing China’s need to enhance food security
- China could provide a lifeline to Russia’s economy after the United States and its allies imposed swift economic sanctions on Moscow this week
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China has announced it is fully open to Russian wheat imports, in the latest sign of their strengthening bilateral ties as the Ukraine crisis is unfolding before a global audience and in the wake of fresh sanctions being imposed on Moscow.
The announcement by China’s General Administration of Customs was made public on Thursday, hours after Russian troops launched a wide-ranging attack on Ukraine. However, the agreement was part of a package of deals made during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Beijing early this month.
China had previously restricted imports of Russian grain due to phytosanitary concerns – measures for the control of plant diseases, especially in agricultural crops – and China’s latest customs statement also said Russia would take all measures to mitigate infestation risks.
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China began allowing large-scale wheat imports from Russia’s far east region in October, with China’s largest agribusiness firm, the state-owned Cofco, buying the first batch of 667 metric tonnes (1.47 million pounds).
06:15
Biden imposes stronger sanctions on Russia as invasion of Ukraine advances
Biden imposes stronger sanctions on Russia as invasion of Ukraine advances
As the world’s largest exporter of wheat, Russia sent more than 30 million metric tonnes abroad in the first 11 months of last year.
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