US, EU Concerned Over Russia's Import Substitution Program

A source said that the United States and the European Union expressed their concern over Russia's import substitution policies during a session of Investment Measures Committee of the World Trade Organization.

GENEVA (Sputnik) – The United States and the European Union expressed their concern over Russia's import substitution policies during a session of Investment Measures (TRIMS) Committee of the World Trade Organization (WTO), a source familiar with the negotiations told RIA Novosti.

According to the source, the United States and the European Union were concerned over Moscow requiring priority for Russian-made products for state purchases.

Russia has recently implemented the strategy of import substitution of medical equipment within the framework of its anti-crisis plan, the source said Thursday. The United States is concerned that Russia is preparing to extend those requirements for state-owned enterprises.

Japan, the European Union and Canada also voiced similar concerns, regarding state purchases of medical, industrial and agricultural equipment, as well as textiles and vehicles.

The United States, the European Union and their allies imposed several rounds of restrictions to weaken Russia's economy in 2014 over Moscow's alleged interference in the Ukraine conflict. Russia has repeatedly refused the accusations. Following the introduction of restrictions, Moscow initiated an import substitution program.

In February, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev signed a ban on importing foreign-made machinery for the needs of state and municipal entities as part of Russia's import substitution program.