ND businesses concerned over Russian invasion

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) - Some North Dakota companies conduct business in Ukraine and Russia.

Howard Dahl is the cofounder and CEO of Amity Technology in Fargo. He’s spent a lot of time in Ukraine and Russia.

“Right now I just feel a deep, deep sorrow for Ukrainian friends. I can’t even imagine what they’re thinking about today,” said Dahl.

Howard has been to Ukraine 93 times since 1992. Amity has sold thousands of pieces of farm machinery to companies in both Ukraine and Russia. Implements like sugar beet harvesters; field cultivators and air seeders are examples of the types of agriculture equipment Amity has shipped to eastern Europe. He says Soviet tanks and troops invading a neighboring country is cause for concern.

“I’ve been on the phone with both Titan Machinery and RDO this morning. We’re all concerned about employees we have over there and just the complete chaos and uncertainty as to what lies ahead,” said Dahl.

North Dakota officials said Russia’s invasion of Ukraine could have a huge impact on North Dakota companies that have satellite operations in the region.

“They know the benefit of having that facility there provides economic stability, activity for that region, for that community. This has a ripple effect all the way back through the whole system,” said ND Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring.

Howard says he’ll be keeping a close eye on the situation as it unfolds.

“My greater concern is for the people right now, but of course, we have to be responsible for our businesses and protect the well-being of the business,” said Dahl.

Amity Technology has around ten employees in Russia and Ukraine.

In addition to the impact war in Ukraine will have on North Dakota companies, it’ll also affect North Dakota farmers. Ukraine is a significant grain producer, and Howard questions whether planting season will be business as usual in Ukraine this year.

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