Because of the war, Ukraine can only export grain by ship to a limited extent. Some EU neighbors are angry because agricultural products end up on their markets instead. According to the EU Commission, there is now an agreement.
In the dispute over agricultural imports from Ukraine, the EU Commission says it has reached an agreement with several Eastern European countries. Concerns from farmers in several neighboring EU countries and Ukraine itself were taken into account, Commission Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis wrote on Twitter.
Poland, Bulgaria, Slovakia and Hungary will therefore lift their countermeasures. In return, there will be “extraordinary protective measures” for wheat, corn, rapeseed and sunflower seeds. He did not give details.
The four countries have restricted agricultural imports from Ukraine, arguing that cheap grain from the war-torn country is distorting their own markets. Romania also complained. As part of the agreement that has now been reached, the import of the controversial agricultural goods could be allowed again – but only for onward transport and not for sale in the affected EU neighbors.
Tariffs suspended on Ukrainian imports
Following the Russian attack last year, the EU suspended tariffs on imports from Ukraine to give the country better access to international markets. Ukraine is one of the most important grain producers, but can only use its Black Sea ports to a limited extent because of the war.
The EU member states had previously agreed to suspend tariffs for another year. This is intended to strengthen the Ukrainian economy, as announced by the Swedish Council Presidency. The Committee of Permanent Representatives of EU countries has signaled its support. Whether all countries welcomed the decision remained unclear – but unanimity is not required for a final decision. The EU Parliament still has to approve the extension. After that, the EU states will formally vote on the measure.