The Ukrainian ministry’s press service provided details of the discussion.
Key Discussion Points
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Ukrainian Agricultural Performance
- Despite a portion of Ukraine’s agricultural land remaining under temporary occupation by Russian forces, the country showcased robust results in the sector last year.
- In 2024, 57% of Ukraine’s agricultural exports went to EU member states, amounting to a total of $24.6 billion in agricultural exports worldwide. Of this, $211.6 million worth of Ukrainian agricultural products reached Portugal.
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Export Routes and Market Diversification
- Koval noted that 86% of Ukraine’s agricultural products are shipped via Odesa and Danube ports.
- Ukraine continues to explore new markets, particularly in Africa and the Middle East, to reduce over-reliance on traditional routes and partners.
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Joint Efforts Against Illegal Grain Exports
- The Ukrainian minister urged Portugal to cooperate in combating the illicit trade of Ukrainian grain reportedly appropriated by Russia.
- Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to standing against the trafficking of stolen agricultural goods.
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Humanitarian Initiative
- Koval thanked Portugal for its ongoing support of the “Grain from Ukraine” presidential initiative, which helps deliver Ukrainian grain to vulnerable populations.
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Potential Areas of Expanded Cooperation
- Koval invited Portuguese businesses to look into broader partnership opportunities, stressing that Ukraine’s agricultural sector, despite challenges, remains resilient and open to foreign investment and collaboration.
Outlook
Both sides see promise in bolstering their agricultural ties. The discussions follow a pattern of Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to solidify partnerships with EU countries, ensuring stable export flows and tackling mutual challenges, including Russian aggression and supply-chain disruptions.
In a related development, the Ukrainian Minister of Agrarian Policy recently discussed with Lithuania the Grain Verification Scheme (GVS)—a mechanism designed to trace Ukrainian grain stolen by Russia—further underlining Ukraine’s drive to protect the integrity of its exports.
