The Council of the European Union has approved a decision to reduce or eliminate customs duties on a range of agricultural products from Ukraine. The list of products that will be subject to the new conditions includes dairy products, fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, and meat products. This initiative is part of the update to the agreement on a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area between Ukraine and the EU.
This is reported by Business • Media
Details of the Decision and Prospects for Liberalization
The adopted decision is expected to promote an increase in trade volumes between Ukraine and the European Union. However, further expansion of duty-free access for Ukrainian farmers to the European market will depend on the level of implementation of European standards in the domestic agricultural sector.
At the same time, further liberalization of Kyiv’s access to the European market will depend on Ukraine’s progress in implementing European standards in the agricultural sector.
Restrictions for “Sensitive” Products
For certain categories recognized as “sensitive,” such as sugar, poultry meat, eggs, wheat, corn, and honey, the conditions for access to the European market will remain limited according to established quotas. The document takes into account the interests of the agricultural sectors of EU countries and provides effective mechanisms to protect European producers.
The final implementation of the decision is expected after its approval by the Association Committee between Ukraine and the EU.