The government has decided to close a section of Finland’s eastern border, resulting in the closure of border crossings at Vaalimaa, Nuijamaa, Imatra, and Niirala since November 18, 2023. The decision will remain in effect until February 18, 2024.
“The import of live animals, food, and animal products from Russia will be completely halted, as they cannot be transported through Vaalimaa, the sole border point on the eastern border,” the agency said in a statement.
Due to the closure of the Vaalimaa border control point, the transit of goods of animal origin is also impossible. “The border control of shipments passing through Vaalimaa has been halted at the Vuosaari port border checkpoint, while the eastern border remains closed. Consignments of animal origin cannot be exported through the northern checkpoints,” the agency stated.
The food agency has indicated that it will provide updates on any further changes.
