Russia is seeking a delay for new EU security rules on air-freight shipments. From 1 July, airlines will have to show that security procedures on air cargo have been passed by EU authorities.
The new rules, drawn up two years ago, are set to come into place next week. It is possible that they will disrupt cargo traffic between Moscow and the EU.
If Russia and the EU do not reach a compromise on a delay, EU authorities could possibly grant Russia’s airlines up to six months of grace on certain cases. This would mean that freight traffic would not stop completely.
The EU has already granted exemptions to its new rules to around ten countries. However, talks on the matter with Russia broke down before reaching an agreement.
Russia argues that the new checks are not necessary, as its airlines and airports are meeting global air safety standards of UN agency the International Civil Aviation Organization.
A spokesman for Russia's Transport Ministry said that Russian officials sent a letter to the European Commission's director for air transport, requesting more talks on the matter.
Russia is the EU's eighth-most important air-freight destination.
© 2014 European Supermarket Magazine
