Posted on 31 Jul 2025
The European Union has granted an exemption from its transaction ban on certain Russian ports, allowing the continued transit of Kazakh coal, Kallanish notes.
This exemption, an amendment of the EU’s restrictive measures in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, reflects the Union’s commitment to avoiding unintended negative consequences on the energy security of third countries, it says.
According to Kazakh media, the exemption was introduced following a formal request from Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Trade and Integration. The adjustment, part of the EU’s 18th sanctions package, comes in response to disruptions caused by the 16th sanctions package adopted in February 2025, which banned transactions with several Russian ports, including Ust-Luga and a critical transit hub for Kazakh coal exports to Europe.
In response, Kazakhstan’s trade and foreign affairs authorities, along with its Mission to the European Union, engaged in consultations with EU officials to seek a resolution.
As a result, the EU now permits the transit of coal of strictly Kazakh origin through designated Russian ports, under strict conditions. The cargo must not be owned by entities subject to EU sanctions, and the ports may be used solely for transit, loading, or dispatch with no purchasing, processing, or production activities allowed on their territory.
Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Trade emphasized that this decision ensures the continuity of coal exports to Europe and strengthens the country’s role as a reliable energy supplier to the region, local media reports.
Source:Kallanish
