September 23, 2004

Russian Dairy Exports Allowed Into EU
 

Three Russian dairies have been added to the list of companies authorized to export milk and dairy products to the European Union. The Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health of the European Commission made the decision.

This is the first time that Russian dairy producers have received permission to export their produce to the European Union.

David Byrne, Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection, said: "This is yet another sign of the good cooperation between Russia and the EU."

Approval of the three dairies follows guarantees from the Russian authorities that the establishments comply with the relevant EU food safety rules. The Commission's Food and Veterinary Office had made an inspection visit earlier this year.

The Russian authorities will inspect the three companies on a regular basis to ensure they continue to comply with EU standards. Inspectors from the Commission's Food and Veterinary Office also have the right to conduct inspections.