It is being reported that the German customs authorities have seized a cargo of Russian timber bound for the United States valued at over $40 million.
The seizure arose because the vessel carrying the timber to the United States was required to call into the port of Rostock due to technical difficulties.
The customs authorities have taken the view that this amounts to an import into the EU of sanctioned timber products from Russia. This determination is currently the subject of an appeal.
The Canadian company, Atlantic Ro-Ro Carriers owns the vessel involved.
It is also being reported that 10% of the cargo is products of a company owned or controlled by a person designated under the EU’s sanctions.