According to Karel de Gucht, who serves as the E.U. Commissioner of Trade, the prohibition imposed by Russia against the importation of vegetables from the European Union can hinder Russia’s efforts to secure entry into the World Trade Organization. In early June, Russia imposed restrictions banning the imports of vegetables from the European Union over concerns with the spread of intestinal diseases in Europe. After the ban was instituted, the E.U. planned to send a mission to Russia headed by John Dalli, who serves as the Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy. In 2010, the countries of the European Union provided almost one fourth of Russian vegetable imports, or 620 000 tons. The ban on E.U. vegetable imports was not lifted until August 8. Despite de Gucht’s position, a number of other officials are not worried about the effect of this summer’s ban on Russia’s chances to gain admission to the WTO.