Russia may cut or cancel import duties on agricultural produce, mainly vegetables and fruits, from Iran, Economy Minister Alexei Ulyukayev was quoted as saying by the ministry’s press service Wednesday.
A decision in principle by global powers to lift sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program has stirred other nations, including Russia, into seeking closer ties with energy-rich Iran.
Russia’s economy ministry said Ulyukayev met Iranian Industry Minister Mohammad Reza Nematzadeh on the sidelines of a World Trade Organization conference in Kenya.
“We offer serious steps aimed at improving trade conditions for the Iranians, meaning a cut, and even cancellation of customs tariff, mainly for agricultural goods – vegetables and fruits,” the ministry quoted Ulyukayev as saying.
It also said trade turnover between the two countries fell 23.6 percent in January-October to just over $1 billion.