European Commission introduces exception for import of Russian sable skins

Exception for sable fur in sanctions package

The European Commission has officially confirmed that the latest package of restrictive measures against Russia includes a specific exception allowing the import of sable skins. This is reported by the publication Euractiv.

Industry dependence as the main reason

The key factor that contributed to the adoption of this decision was the dependence of part of the European manufacturing sector on this specific type of raw material. According to the European Commission, Russia maintains a dominant position in the global sable fur market, making the search for alternative supply sources difficult for European companies.

Position of MEPs and initiators of the change

MEP Sikela explained that EU member states unanimously supported the introduction of targeted exceptions specifically for sable skins. Italy and Greece were the initiators of the relaxation of these specific restrictions.

It is important to note that this step concerns exclusively the import of sable fur and does not imply the cancellation of sanctions against Russia in general.