Lithuanian MP calls on retail chains to drop “war sponsor” Viciunai’s products

In Lithuania, a member of the ruling coalition’s Conservative Party, Matas Maldeikis called on retail chains to be guided not only by legal, but also by moral norms and to remove Viciunai Group products from the shelves.

This was reported by Delfi, Ukrinform reports.

"It's just politically sad. I believe that the intervention from the government and the European Union in some issues should not be the only regulatory element. Certain actions by companies should be based on moral principles, not just law," said Maldeikis.

According to him, a "certain reaction" is necessary, since the named company, operating in the Russian Federation, actually contributes funds to continue aggression. The parliamentarian noted that it is legally impossible to force retail chains not to sell Viciunai products.

The politician also called the initiative of the Lidl retail chain to additionally label Viciunai products a "step in the right direction". "Some labeling is a sign in the right direction, an acknowledgment that the problem exists. If there is a problem, the question arises, where is the line where we should stop," he said.

Viciunai Group is a global manufacturer and supplier of a variety of food products. In addition to being the world’s largest surimi processor, Viciunai Group is also one of the largest and most economically powerful seafood producers in Europe. Headquartered in Lithuania, it operates factories in Lithuania, Spain, Estonia, and Russia.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, on Thursday Ukraine’s National Agency for Corruption Prevention designated Viciunai Group, known under the Vici brand, as an international sponsor of war, putting the company on the relevant list.

Photo: DELFI / KIRIL ČACHOVSKIJ