Armenian Fish Products Targeted by Russia: Moscow Discusses Potential Counterfeiting

«Rosselkhoznadzor» will conduct inspections at a number of Armenian enterprises. The agency has announced that at the request of the Armenian side, Rosselkhoznadzor will check the companies whose supplies to Russia were suspended due to suspicions of counterfeit fish products of European origin.

The agency clarified that initial inspections of imported rainbow trout and the analysis of materials, including photographs, raised suspicions regarding the origin of the raw materials used. “The rainbow trout mentioned in veterinary documents did not match the morphological characteristics of the imported fish. It had atypical coloration for the species and an anomalously high weight of more than 5.5 kg. This indicates that the fish may belong to another type of salmonids or other types of trout, which is a sign of product counterfeiting. The cultivation and sale of salmon are more characteristic of European countries, and such products could be subjected to the effects of special economic measures (sanctions),” noted Rosselkhoznadzor.

Additionally, in accordance with the agreements reached, at the request of the Armenian side, inspections will also be conducted at Armenia’s plant production enterprises to ensure the supply of genuinely Armenian and phytosanitary safe products. The service expressed concern about the increase in cases of the detection of quarantine objects dangerous to EAEU member countries among products subject to quarantine control imported from Armenia to Russia.

The agency also reported that the phytosanitary control of quarantine products transported from Armenia to Russia has been strengthened by the regional administration of Rosselkhoznadzor, and starting from May 19, 2026, additional specialists from the central office of Rosselkhoznadzor are expected to be involved.