Border officials along the Belarusian-Russian border are increasingly detecting attempts of illegal fruit and vegetable smuggling.
Just last week, 16 such incidents were recorded, totalling around 300 tons of Polish pears valued at over $702,000 intended for export from Belarus to Russia.
Violations of legislation were identified in the Vitebsk, Gomel, and Mogilev regions during inspections. Truck drivers failed to present necessary accompanying documents and certificates ensuring the safety of the produce for consumption.
In seven instances, Polish pears were disguised as different goods, such as green peas, dry cereals, and flakes.
Earlier in mid-February, Mogilev customs officers intercepted an attempt to illegally transport 40 tons of pears from Belarus to Russia. The crates were labelled as Polish fruits, yet lacked the required documentation. The total value of the illegally exported pears amounted to €107,000.
source: officelife.media