EU Proposes Ban on Russian Cod Imports in Latest Sanctions Package
The European Commission has unveiled a new sanctions package over the war in Ukraine, proposing a ban on cod imports from Russia along with restrictions on other fish products.
"We propose substantial restrictions on imports on some fish products, and a complete ban on others, including cod." — Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President
Background
The EU initially banned luxury seafood items like caviar from Russia in April 2022. In 2024, the bloc ended duty-free and most-favored nation treatment for all Russian fishery products.
Economic Impact
According to Euractiv, the EU imported €709 million ($819 million) worth of Russian fish in 2024. The main importers were the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Poland.
From January to November 2025, Russia increased fish shipments to the EU by 5% in both volume and value, reaching 198,000 tonnes worth $784 million, as reported by TASS.
- Pollock fillets drove the growth, with supplies up 40% in volume and 50% in value, reaching 116,000 tonnes valued at $325 million.
- Frozen cod exports from Russia to the EU fell 45% in volume and 15% in value, dropping to 24,000 tonnes worth $160 million.
- Frozen haddock fillets declined 50% in volume and 25% in value, falling to just 900 tonnes worth $6.5 million.
Official Statement
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated: "Finally, we are addressing one of the last major unsanctioned sectors: fisheries."
She also confirmed that trade restrictions would be aligned with Belarus to prevent the country from serving as a backdoor for Russian trade.