Heavyweight response? Russia restricts lead exports as sanctions squeeze

The Russian government has introduced a decree, Resolution No. 873 of 14 May 2022, which it says, introduces an ‘authorisation-based procedure for exporting raw lead, as well as scrap lead and lead waste.’

It says that between that date and 15 November, export of those products will require a single-use licence, as issued by the Ministry of Industry and Trade, noting,

‘The resolution is aimed at preventing lead shortages on the Russian market in light of the externally imposed restrictions. This metal is needed to produce storage batteries and is widely used by automakers.’

However, it says that ‘bona-fide market participants will not need additional approvals and authorisations to get a single-use export license issued by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. Lead producers and scrap lead processers have all the necessary documents for this purpose,’ adding,’

‘In 2021, the Government introduced temporary export duties on ferrous and non-ferrous metals in the face of growing global prices for these commodities. This made it possible to mitigate the impact of the external factors on the domestic market situation, adjust metal product prices, and continue the implementation of major infrastructure projects.’