Exports of aluminum from Finland to the Russian Federation have increased, amounting to €22.3 million by the end of September. It has happened because of exports of aluminum wheel studs not sanctioned by the EU. Finland exports aluminum wheel studs via the Baltic Sea, and the significant share of exports is made by Turvanasta, manufacturing studs designed for snow tires. The company promised to cease deliveries to the Russian Federation after the end of contracts concluded with Russia.
At the same time, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Finland asserts that it cannot interfere with deliveries to Russia if certain goods are not sanctioned by the EU, providing Finnish companies with an opportunity to make their own decisions regarding ethics of exports to Russia. Notwithstanding this circumstance, the export of aluminum wheel studs should be a cause of concern since Russia may use these products for its military needs. The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation may use studded snow tires for vehicles used to conduct front-line operations.
Although trade between the Republic of Finland and the Russian Federation has declined sharply since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, there are still a lot of Finnish companies, continuing trading with Russia. It raises questions about strict compliance with code of ethics and possible negative ramifications for global security.
