The introduction of new rules for grain inspection in Lithuania could delay Russian exports for several months. Reuters.
Lithuania will demand that Russian and Belarusian grain sent through the port of Kalypda be preserved until the tests confirming its origin are completed. The procedure could delay exports for several months, an Agriculture Ministry official told Reuters.
Lithuania began inspecting grain shipments from Russia and Belarus in September, suspecting that some of the grain came from Ukrainian territories occupied by Russian troops.
Starting next week, wheat, barley, sunflower seeds and corn exported through the port of Kalypda from Russia or Belarus will not undergo customs clearance until the results of the inspection are received, an official said.
"The analyzes may last two months or more," he said, adding: "If the alleged source is false, the shipment must be returned or destroyed."
Since there is no laboratory in Lithuania capable of performing the necessary tests, performing them abroad takes time. Exporters will bear all costs associated with storage, inspection, return or destruction of grain, the official added.