Russia’s consumer watchdog, Rospotrebnadzor, has suspended the sale in Russia of wines and brandies produced by three Armenian companies: Vedi-Alco, Abovyan Brandy Factory, and Shakhnazaryan Wine and Brandy House.
The restrictions affect, among other products, the semi-sweet red wine Getap Vernashen, the dry white wine Vedi Alco, Armenian Brandy 5 Stars, and Shakhnazaryan XO brandy.
According to the agency, alcohol from these producers does not comply with “mandatory requirements.” It did not specify what those alleged violations were.
Restrictions amid deteriorating relations
Earlier, Rospotrebnadzor had already fully banned the Armenian mineral water Jermuk in Russia. The agency said the product allegedly exceeded the permitted bicarbonate content.
The regulator had also raised complaints about Armenian fruit and vegetables over what it described as “problems.” Shortly before that, it also restricted flower imports from Armenia into Russia.
All of this is taking place against the backdrop of worsening relations between Moscow and Yerevan, linked to Armenia’s growing ties with the EU. In April, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said Armenia did not plan to return “to active participation” in the CSTO.
In early May, Yerevan hosted a summit of the European Political Community, attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. After that, State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin and Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu said Armenia was pursuing an “unfriendly” policy toward Russia.