Russia’s veterinary watchdog sets “discriminatory terms” for wine imports from Moldova

“Rospotrebnadzor”, Russia’s veterinary watchdog drew up special terms for the access of Moldova on the Russian wine market, Ghenadii Oniscenko told the Russian press. According to him Moldova has recognised the violations admitted at the production and sale of wine production exported to Russia. “Special “discriminatory” terms will be in effect during the first stage of the resumption of exports. Each consignment will be closely inspected before being allowed to cross the border”, Onishcenko emphasised. At the same time, the head of “Rospotrebnadzor” mentioned that the suppliers from Moldova will be practically forced to regain the Russian market, which was cornered by wines from Latin America, Australia, Japan, etc. Again, Onishcenko said that all the responsibility for the situation on the Russian market of alcoholic beverages lies with the Moldovan and Georgian wines. According to him, as a result of the embargo imposed to these two countries and other caution measures, the number of serious and lethal cases has reduced by 12 thousand in 2006 compared with 2005. Russia banned the imports of wines and divins (cognac-like beverages) from Moldova in March 2006. In November, presidents Vladimir Voronin and Vladimir Putin reached an agreement in what concerns the resumption of wine export from Moldova. It is expected that the exports to Russia will be resumed by late February 2007.