Rosselkhoznadzor to allow exporters to correct violations before WTO import bans
GENEVA. Nov 10 (Interfax) - Russia's agricultural watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor will not ban any imports to Russia of production from various enterprises upon inspection before the exporter countries present their measures for correcting violations.
This approach is not applicable incases where there is "a serious risk for animal and human health," the World Trade Organization (WTO) said in a statement.
After Russia's accession to the WTO, Rosselkhoznadzor will be obliged to provide a preliminary report on audits of foreign agricultural enterprises by regulators in the respective countries for commentaries.
Russia is also obliged to reach agreements on veterinary certifications with exporter countries. These certifications would include requirements unlike Customs Union norms if an exporter makes a justified demand for an agreement before January 1, 2012.
In addition, as part of Russia's WTO accession, imports of meat, lumber and products with alcohol content, will be declared and/or processed at designated customs points. Any import process, which contradicts the WTO accession agreement, will cease once Russia joins the organization. Russia will not apply customs procedures that differ from WTO norms.
A working group approved the summary protocol on Thursday for Russia's accession to the WTO. Russia should complete internal ratifications by June 15, 2012. Russia will become a WTO member 30 days after notification on ratification procedures.
Ih
(Our editorial staff can be reached at eng.editors@interfax.ru