By Country / Russia
Law Banning Migrants From Russian Markets In Effect
April 01, 2007
The new law will crack down on migrants (file photo) (Courtesy Photo)
Authorities say the law is aimed at encouraging unemployed Russian citizens to work as vendors in the marketplaces, and also at cracking down on illegal immigration.
Critics, however, say the measure could lead to shortages of products and higher prices for consumers.
Tens of thousands of foreign migrants, including many from neighboring countries that were formerly in the Soviet Union, are estimated to come to Russia every year looking for work.
(AFP, AP, ITAR-TASS)