MOSCOW: The government wants Russian retailers to limit the sale of essential food items in order to curb black market sales and ensure support prices. Russia’s move comes as the world imposes sanctions following its military action against Ukraine.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has said that there have been cases of purchase of essential food items in excess of what is required for private consumption and this is aimed at resale. The ministry said in a statement that the trade associations representing them had suggested that retailers should be allowed to limit the amount of goods they sell to individuals.
The ministry said in a statement that the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of Agriculture supported the move and trade unions could take a decision on the issue. Restricted essentials include bread, rice, whole grain flour, eggs, some meats, and dairy products.
Western nations have imposed heavy sanctions on Russia since it launched a military operation in neighboring Ukraine on February 24. Following this, the Russian Central Bank took steps to tighten its grip on the crisis-ridden economy and the ruble.