MOSCOW

Russia's customs service has decided to temporarily suspend the publication of import and export data in order to avoid errors and "speculation," the service's head said on Thursday.

"I support this decision in order to avoid false predictions, (and) speculations. This decision is a temporary measure," Vladimir Bulavin told reporters in Moscow.

The most recent import-export statistics for Russia were released in March for the month of January.

According to the country's central bank, exports are expected to decrease by 12% to $484 billion this year, while imports are expected to diminish by 30% to $266 billion.

Normally, the customs department releases import and export figures within the first 10 days of each month.

In March, Russia imposed an export ban on more than 200 products, including telecoms, medical, vehicle, agricultural, and electrical equipment, until the end of 2022 in response to Western sanctions.

Early in April, Russia's Energy Ministry suspended the publication of monthly oil production and export data, and the central bank ceased publication of statistics on foreign trade and external debt.

* Writing and contributions by Aysu Bicer in Ankara​​​​​​​