During a visit to Warsaw by his Latvian counterpart, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk disclosed on Thursday that Poland is considering the possibility of imposing a ban on agricultural products originating from Russia. Latvia has already enforced such a ban.
In line with several European nations, Poland has witnessed farmer protests in recent weeks, with demonstrators expressing discontent over European Union environmental regulations and perceived unfair competition from Ukraine following the EU’s exemption of duties on imports in 2022.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk highlighted concerns regarding market distortions attributed to agricultural products from Russia and Belarus, in addition to the existing grievances faced by Polish farmers.
“Latvia decided to implement an embargo on the import of (agricultural) products from Russia,” stated Tusk during a news conference. “We will assess Latvia’s decision, and I do not exclude the possibility of Poland taking similar action.”
Tusk emphasized the necessity for the European Union to focus on enhancing regulations concerning the importation of cereals and food products from Eastern countries.
Later on Thursday, Tusk is scheduled to meet with leaders of the farming community to address their concerns and discuss potential initiatives moving forward.