Bern, Switzerland – In a significant move aligning with broader international efforts, Switzerland has reportedly implemented a ban on the sale and import of Russia-origin aluminium in unwrought form. Effective Thursday, May 15th, this restriction also extends to Belarusian aluminium and includes new limitations on certain export activities.
This latest measure by the Swiss government reflects a commitment to aligning with the European Union’s strategic approach to sanctions against Russia. Specifically, the move is understood to be in parallel with the EU’s 16th sanctions package, enacted in February 2025. This comprehensive package targeted various sectors, including imports of aluminium, military equipment, and vessels involved in transporting Russian oil. The overarching objective of these EU sanctions, and now Switzerland’s congruent action, is to diminish Russia’s financial capacity and its ability to fund the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
While Switzerland had previously implemented similar sanctions at the commencement of the conflict three years ago, reports indicated that Russian aluminium continued to enter the country through indirect channels, often utilizing intermediaries such as Turkey. This latest ban appears designed to close such potential circumvention routes and reinforce the intended impact of the sanctions.
Historically, Switzerland has been a notable importer of aluminium, including semi-finished forms, from Russia. Data from the Internal Trade Administration illustrates the fluctuating nature of these imports. Volumes reached a high of 14,753 tonnes in 2015 before declining in the subsequent two years. Imports saw a rebound in 2018 and 2019, reaching approximately 9,000 tonnes, but experienced a significant decrease in recent years, falling to 1,746 tonnes in 2022 and further in 2023. This new ban is likely to further impact these import figures, solidifying the reduction in direct and indirect reliance on Russian aluminium. 
This action by Switzerland underscores the continued international pressure being applied to Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine and highlights the increasing coordination among nations in utilizing economic measures to achieve geopolitical objectives.
Source: Swissinfo with additional information added by GlassBalkan
