The Financial Intelligence Unit of Latvia (FID) reported that most of the fertilizers (ammonium nitrate), which had not been transported anywhere before due to sanctions, were removed from the SIA Riga Fertilizer Terminal (RFT) in the port of Riga.
According to FID, Russian businessman Dmitry Mazepin, who is under EU sanctions, indirectly controls both the terminal itself and the owners of mineral fertilizers, whose cargoes are stored there. In this regard, the business activities of the RFT were suspended and an obligation was introduced to ensure the safe storage of mineral fertilizers until they are exported.
On November 1, 2024, FID authorized the lifting of sanctions on the freezing of mineral fertilizers to prevent potential environmental hazards. It was originally planned to hold an auction for the sale of mineral fertilizers, but it did not take place.
On March 5, 2025, FID decided to sell ammonium nitrate stored at the terminal to a merchant registered in Latvia who is not subject to international sanctions. All funds received as a result of the sale have already been frozen in Latvian credit institutions in accordance with the sanctions regime.
“The physical removal of mineral fertilizers from the RFT terminal is currently underway, and most of the ammonium nitrate (approximately 75% of all ammonium nitrate) has already been removed, reducing potential risks to the environment,” the FID said.
Dmitry Mazepin is a Russian entrepreneur, former CEO of the United Chemical Company Uralchem. The Forbes publication estimates Mazepin’s fortune at $2.2 billion.
