This significant development aligns with the requirements outlined in Part Eight of Article 60 of the Law of Ukraine “On Basic Principles and Requirements for the Safety and Quality of Food Products”. The approval was formalized through Order No. 2252 on July 26, 2024, and subsequently registered with the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine on September 13, 2024, under No. 1378/42723.
Streamlining Export Documentation
The newly approved procedure is designed to enhance the efficiency and transparency of Ukraine’s food export processes. By establishing clear guidelines and standardized forms, the Ministry aims to facilitate smoother international trade and ensure compliance with the regulatory requirements of destination countries.
Key Components of the Procedure
The Procedure for Issuing International Certificates and Other Documents Required by the Legislation of the Country of Destination for Food Cargoes encompasses several critical elements:
Application Submission Process:
- Market Operators can submit applications to obtain international certificates through the territorial body of the State Service for Food and Consumer Protection or authorized personnel.
- The procedure outlines the necessary steps for application submission, ensuring that market operators can efficiently navigate the certification process.
Required Documentation:
- A comprehensive list of documents required for issuing international certificates is provided, ensuring that all necessary information is included to meet the standards of the destination country.
Issuance and Refusal Criteria:
- The procedure defines clear grounds for issuing or refusing international certificates, promoting consistency and fairness in the certification process.
Pre-Export International Certificates:
- For cases where the country of destination is not determined or the final means of transport is unknown at the time of departure, a pre-export international certificate can be issued upon application by the market operator.
Replacement and Reissuance:
- Guidelines are established for the replacement (reissuance) of international certificates, ensuring that any necessary corrections or updates can be made promptly and accurately.
Introduction of Standardized Certificate Forms
In addition to the procedural guidelines, the Ministry has approved 15 forms of international certificates tailored for the export of food products of animal and non-animal origin from Ukraine. These forms are to be used when there is no existing form agreed upon by the State Service for Food and Consumer Protection and the competent authority of the country of destination, or when the destination country has not established a specific form of international certificate.
Implementation Timeline
The approved procedure is set to enter into force on January 11, 2025, providing ample time for market operators and relevant stakeholders to familiarize themselves with the new requirements and processes. This phased implementation ensures a smooth transition and minimizes disruptions to ongoing export activities.
Benefits and Strategic Implications
Enhanced Efficiency and Transparency
By standardizing the certification process and introducing clear guidelines, the new procedure aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and accelerate the export process. This enhancement is expected to increase the competitiveness of Ukrainian food products in international markets by ensuring timely and compliant documentation.
Support for Agricultural Exporters
The introduction of the "e-Plant Growing" electronic system and the streamlined certification procedures complement Ukraine’s broader strategy to modernize its agricultural sector and attract foreign investment. These initiatives collectively contribute to building a more resilient and efficient agricultural export infrastructure.
Alignment with International Standards
Adhering to OECD principles and incorporating best global practices, the new procedure ensures that Ukrainian exports meet the stringent quality and safety standards required by international markets. This alignment is crucial for maintaining Ukraine’s reputation as a reliable supplier of high-quality food products.
Official Statements
Taras Kachka, Deputy Minister of Economy and Trade Representative of Ukraine, emphasized the importance of the new procedure:
“The approval of the Procedure for Issuing International Certificates is a pivotal step towards enhancing the efficiency of our agricultural exports. By providing clear and transparent guidelines, we are enabling our market operators to better navigate the complexities of international trade and ensuring that our food products meet the highest standards of safety and quality.”
Collaborative Development
The Procedure for Issuing International Certificates was developed in collaboration with international partners, including representatives from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), European Union (EU), International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and USAID/Ukaid (SOERA Project). This collaboration ensures that the procedure is robust, comprehensive, and aligned with global best practices.
Future Steps
Following the approval, the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food will undertake the following steps:
Triage Process:
- Identifying and categorizing state-owned companies involved in plant growing to determine their eligibility for continued state ownership, privatization, or liquidation.
Formation of Supervisory Boards:
- Establishing independent supervisory boards for state-owned enterprises that meet specific criteria to ensure adherence to corporate governance standards.
Defining Responsibilities:
- Clearly delineating the roles and functions between government authorities and state-owned companies to enhance operational efficiency and accountability.
Conclusion
The approval of the Procedure for Issuing International Certificates and Other Documents Required by the Legislation of the Country of Destination for Food Cargoes marks a significant advancement in Ukraine’s agricultural export framework. By streamlining the certification process, introducing standardized forms, and aligning with international standards, Ukraine is well-positioned to enhance its presence in global markets, attract investment, and ensure the sustainable growth of its agricultural sector.
As Ukraine continues to implement these comprehensive reforms, the agricultural industry can anticipate increased efficiency, greater transparency, and improved competitiveness on the international stage, ultimately contributing to the nation’s economic resilience and prosperity.
