| | | Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Bioterrorsim Act”, and where can I find more information?
The events of September 11, 2001, reinforced the need to enhance the security of the United States.
Congress responded by passing the Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002 (the Bioterrorism Act), which President Bush signed into law June 12, 2002.
This Act directly impacts imports of food products into the United States, and importers should keep up to date on the Act’s provisions and requirements to avoid confiscation of imported food products. Further information can be found on the Food and Drug Administration web site at: http://www.fda.gov/oc/bioterrorism/bioact.html
Where can I find information on rules for exporting agricultural products to Russia?
The Food Safety and Inspection Service maintains a web site with current requirements for exporting meat and poultry to the Russian Federation. Exporters or potential exporters can consult the FSIS web site at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OFO/export/Russia.pdf. Exporters should also consult closely with their importer to obtain any new relevant information before consummating trade, as regulations and requirements can change quickly.
USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) also has a key role administering trade of agricultural products. The APHIS mission is an integral part of USDA efforts to provide the Nation with safe and affordable food. Without APHIS protecting America's animal and plant resources from agricultural pests and diseases, threats to the food supply and to our Nation's economy would be significant. The Office of Agricultural Affairs works closely with APHIS in promoting free and science-based trade between the United States and the Russian Federation. Addition information on APHIS and its work can be found at: www.aphis.usda.gov.
Where can I find
information on the structure of Russia’s
Ministry of Agriculture?
The Russian Government maintains several web sites with official information. General data on government structures, regulations, and legislation can be found at www.government.ru, and specific information (in the Russian language) on the Ministry of Agriculture can be found at: www.mcx.ru.
What is the current status of WTO negotiations between the United States and Russia?
Trade negotiations are conducted between the United States Trade Representative and representatives of the Russian Federation. General information can be found at: www.ustr.gov.
Why doesn’t the Foreign Agricultural Service help me find potential exporters of agricultural products into the United States?
Per its mandate, the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) works to improve foreign market access for U.S. products, build new markets, improve the competitive position of U.S. agriculture in the global marketplace, and provide food aid and technical assistance to foreign countries. US importers of agricultural products can often contact that country’s embassy in the United States to learn about importing agricultural products from other countries.
Does USDA publish economic studies on Russia’s agricultural sector?
There are several good sources for up-to-date information on Russian agriculture. The Economic Research Service maintains a “briefing room” that contains research studies on supply and demand and other data at: www.ers.usda.gov/Briefing/Russia/. The Foreign Agricultural Service provides information on supply and demand and market prospects for a number of agricultural products.
Why can’t FAS do specific market research for my company?
Our mission is to provide assistance to American agriculture sector in general. Because of time and budget limitations, our office cannot conduct specific market studies or other research for individual companies.
What products could be exported to Russia, Armenia, Georgia, and Belarus?
The Office of Agricultural Affairs continues to research best prospects for US agricultural exports to these countries. Recently released reports can be found by searching by country at: www.fas.usda.gov/hotpages/default.asp.
What are the procedures for obtaining a Russian visa for travel to the Russian Federation?
A visa is required for travel to Russia. For the most recent information on getting a visa, please consult the American Embassy web site at: www.usembassy.ru/consular/wwwhca1.html. Updated travel information, including travel warnings for the Russian Federation, can be obtained at: www.state.gov/travel.
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