Russia bans import of various Georgian beverages over sanitary concerns

Russia has issued a temporary ban on the import and sale of various beverages produced in Georgia, citing sanitary and safety concerns. The decision, made by the consumer protection agency Rospotrebnadzor in accordance with the Eurasian Economic Commission Council, claims that the affected products fail to meet specific organoleptic, physicochemical, and food safety standards.

The ban covers a wide range of products, including wines from Teliani Valley, Tbilvino, and Wineman, as well as wine and brandy from Askaneli Brothers. Additionally, the restrictions apply to beer from the Georgian Beer Company, Coca-Cola bottled in Georgia, and Nabeglavi mineral water produced by Healthy Water.

Retailers in Russia, including major chains like Auchan, have reportedly begun removing these items from their shelves following instructions from the Association of Retail Companies (AKORT). While the authorities have cited technical non-compliance regarding taste, smell, and composition, the specific analysis results for each product have not been made public, nor has the duration of the restrictions been defined.