Russian Economic Development Minister Alexei Ulyukayev has warned that the introduction of sanctions against Turkey may lead to “short-term disruptions” in the supply of fruit and vegetables, according to the RIA Novosti agency.
“We need some time; it is not possible to rule out some [supply] failures in the short run. However, we think that the situation is, on the whole, completely manageable,” Ulyukayev was quoted as saying.
He added that tomatoes and citrus fruit were most likely to be affected, due to the “very substantial share of Turkish exports” in these markets.
Ulyukayev also said that it was possible to secure adequate supplies from other countries; however, some shortages might occur before all relevant contracts were signed and sanitary control over the imported produce established.
A range of Turkish imports will be banned from entering Russia starting from Jan. 1, 2016. According to RIA Novosti, these currently include parts of animal carcasses, chicken and turkey offal, fresh and chilled tomatoes, onions and shallots, cauliflower and cabbage, broccoli, cucumbers and gherkins, fresh and dried oranges and tangerines, grapes, apples, pears, apricots, peaches and nectarines, plums and sloes, and strawberries.
Tensions flared up between Ankara and Moscow after a Russian Su-24 bomber was shot down by Turkish forces on Nov. 24, with Turkey claiming the jet had previously violated its airspace — an accusation Russia denies.