Russian Government issued a decree that puts restriction on the export of medical masks because of unfair competition. The decision was made in order to protect people’s lives and health.
On 2 March 2020, Michael Mishustin, the Prime Minister of the Russian Government signed a decree which prohibits to take certain medical and personal protective equipment out the country. The restrictions do not apply to discardable medical items for private use.
The list of restrictions includes protective respirators and glasses, masks with particle filter, protective outwear and overalls, medical shoe covers, medical masks, bandages, wadding, gauze, some disinfectants, medical gloves and lab coats.
The temporary prohibition also extends to goods that have already passed all customs formalities but have not yet been sent to foreign countries. The delivery of humanitarian assistance and items from the list taken abroad for personal use is allowed.