Moldova introduces licenses for imports of Ukrainian agricultural products

CHISINAU. Oct 4 (Interfax) - Moldova has imposed restrictions on importing agricultural products from Ukraine, and all imports of such goods will be subject to licensing in accordance with the decision adopted by Moldova's Commission for Emergency Situations on Wednesday, the Moldovan government's press service told Interfax.

Explaining its decision, the Commission for Emergency Situations cited the need to protect the domestic market. Moldovan farmers from the Power of Farmers association previously demanded that the government impose a ban on agricultural imports from Ukraine. The farmers threatened mass protests, as they believed that importing cheaper products from Ukraine could lead them to bankruptcy, the Moldovan government's press service said.

It is stipulated in this decision of the Commission for Emergency Situations that any imports of wheat, corn or sunflower seeds will be permitted solely under a license issued by Moldova's Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry. An application for such a license may be submitted by oil and fat producers, flour producers, feed producers, or livestock breeders. The restrictions will not apply to imports of certain items needed for sowing or planting work.

Within the next 15 days, the ministry will prepare a regulatory framework and form a special commission in charge of issuing licenses, the Moldovan government's press service said.