BASF Plans to Leave Russian Market by July

German chemicals and materials manufacturer BASF plans to end its remaining business activities in Russia and Belarus by the beginning of July 2022 in response to Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Parts of its business that support food production in the countries will remain in operation.

“This decision is driven by the recent developments of the war and in international law, including the furth EU sanctions package,” the firm said in a recent release.

BASF has 684 workers in Belarus and Russia. The company said it intends to “continue to support its employees” through the end of the year.

Food production-related activities will continue because “the war risks triggering a global food crisis,” BASF wrote.

Detailed plans are being created for the withdrawal from the markets.