U.S. Bans Imports Of Russian Alcohol
March 15, 2022The U.S. ratcheted up economic pressure on Russia amid that country’s invasion of Ukraine on Friday, banning imports of Russian alcoholic beverages to the U.S., among a number of other goods. “This will deny Russia more than $1 billion in export revenues and ensure U.S. citizens are not underwriting Putin’s war,” read a statement from the White House. According to Impact Databank, the largest Russian vodka brand in the U.S. is Russian Standard, with approximate volumes of 200,000 cases annually.
A separate executive order from the president also banned exportation of luxury items to any person located in the Russian Federation. “This will ensure that U.S. persons are not providing luxury items, such as high end-watches, luxury vehicles, high-end apparel, high-end alcohol, jewelry, and other goods frequently purchased by Russian elites,” the White House stated. “The U.S. export value of the products covered by today’s luxury goods restrictions is nearly $550 million per year.”
In addition to U.S. measures, the European Union also announced that it is banning exports of luxury goods to Russia, while also prohibiting imports of Russian iron and steel. “Those who sustain Putin’s war machine should no longer be able to enjoy their lavish lifestyle while bombs fall on innocent people in Ukraine,” said European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen. International drinks companies including Diageo, Pernod Ricard, and Edrington have paused shipments to Russia over the invasion of Ukraine, joining other prominent consumer companies like McDonald’s, Nike, and Ikea.
Meanwhile, top U.S. drinks distributor Southern Glazer’s announced Friday that it will be matching 100% of all employee donations made to three charitable organizations supporting humanitarian aid in Ukraine during the next 90 days. The charities include World Central Kitchen, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere (CARE).
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