The discussion centered on the future of Ukraine–EU agricultural trade, including scenarios for extended trade liberalization. First Deputy Minister Taras Vysotsky, Deputy Ministers Denys Bashlyk and Lyudmila Shemelynets, as well as State Secretary Oleksandr Biryukov also participated.
1. Main Discussion Points
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Continuation of Export Processes
- Minister Koval underscored the vital need to maintain continuous exports, even if the current Autonomous Trade Measures (ATM) end.
- Noted the urgency in forming a unified negotiating position for the agricultural sector, ensuring no disruptions.
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Importance of the Agricultural Sector
- In 2024, the sector contributed 15.7% to Ukraine’s GDP and 59.3% of foreign exchange earnings from exports.
- Koval emphasized the need for intensive negotiations with the EU to preserve and expand export opportunities.
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Possible Expiration of ATM
- The current ATM regime concludes on June 5, 2025.
- Without a new trade agreement by then, Ukraine would revert to tariff quotas and duties in effect before 2022, risking $3.5 billion in export losses and a serious economic blow.
2. Challenges and Next Steps
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EU Negotiation Strategy
- Participants explored various scenarios for new liberalized trade measures with the EU.
- Ensuring tariff-free or low-tariff pathways for key Ukrainian agricultural exports is a major priority.
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Coordinated Approach
- Minister Koval stressed unity within the agricultural sector to present a cohesive stance to European partners.
- He called for collective efforts to protect Ukrainian farmers’ interests and bolster the country’s post-war recovery.
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Ongoing Collaboration
- Both ministry officials and industry representatives aim to align on technical and policy details to accelerate the EU negotiation process.
- Further consultations are expected as deadlines near.
3. Key Takeaways
- Agriculture’s Economic Weight: The sector underpins over half of Ukraine’s export revenues, reinforcing the urgent need for favorable trade arrangements.
- Impending Deadline: The expiration of Autonomous Trade Measures by June 2025 compels Ukraine to secure a revised deal or risk reverting to higher tariffs and quotas, with major financial consequences.
- Unified Advocacy: Koval urged stakeholders to collaborate on messaging and strategy, ensuring Ukraine’s agricultural interests remain well-represented in Brussels and among EU member states.
Quote from Minister Koval:
“I am sure that if we act together, we will be able to protect the interests of the Ukrainian agricultural sector!”
By coordinating efforts and fostering constructive dialogue, Ukrainian officials and agricultural industry leaders look to secure continuity of liberalized trade with the European Union—an essential step toward stabilizing Ukraine’s economy and supporting rural livelihoods.
