The World Trade Organisation (WTO) ruling confirming that the Russian ban on pork exports breaks global trading rules is welcome news for local pig producers, according to the Ulster Farming Union.
UFU Pork and Bacon Chairman, Norman Robson, said the Union are "pleased" the WTO has ruled the ban on EU pork products and live pigs illegal.
"We are now echoing calls by our EU counterparts for the ban to be lifted," said Mr Robso
He added that before Russia imposed these restrictions it accounted for just under a quarter of European pork exports, which was worth €1.4 billion a year.
'Over-optimistic'
While this announcement is being seen as a positive step Mr Robson warned local producers not to be over-optimistic about the impact.
"The Russian authorities now have 60 days to decide if they wish to appeal the WTO ruling.
"Should they decide to do this, it will hit hopes that farmers will see speedy benefits from the ruling on this restrictive trade barrier," he said.
Mr Robson said that as part of EU agri-cooperative Copa and Cogeca, the UFU would continue to press for measures that would see a reopening of EU pork trade to Russia.
