Overchuk calls restrictions on Armenian products a routine process

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk has described Russia's measures affecting products imported from Armenia as part of a routine inspection process rather than new trade restrictions.

Speaking to Russian media, Overchuk said Moscow had not imposed any general restrictions on imports from Armenia.

"We are not introducing any restrictions on imports from Armenia. At present, normal work is being carried out in connection with the arrival of a new harvest and new products. Naturally, certain issues may emerge during the inspection process," he said.

According to the Russian official, newly imported products are subject to mandatory checks to ensure consumer safety.

"We must protect our consumers in Russia. New products have arrived, and we need to understand what exactly is being imported. Inspections are conducted to determine whether there are any pests or diseases that could pose a threat to consumers or domestic production. Apparently, something has been detected," Overchuk noted.

His comments come amid concerns over Russian controls and inspections applied to agricultural products arriving from Armenia.