Ukraine has proposed obtaining observer status in the reform process of the Common Agricultural Policy. This upgrade would give the country some influence on agricultural policy decisions that the EU will make in the coming years, according to Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Taras Kachka.
At the Agricultural Council meeting in Luxembourg, Kachka outlined that Ukraine wants to be part of a joint European agri-food strategy. According to him, the Ukrainian agricultural sector is already developing in line with EU standards.
The EU Commission supports Ukraine's integration into the European agricultural and food system. Commissioner Christophe Hansen stated that it is very important to show solidarity with Ukraine in its fight for freedom and independence from Russia.
The closer cooperation is linked to improvements and reforms that Kyiv must implement, according to Brussels. Hansen emphasized that Ukraine must comply with European standards, such as animal welfare and crop protection, by 2028 at the latest. According to him, this is essential for future integration. The European Commission sees modernization of trade relations as part of political support.
However, tensions exist within the EU over the course towards Ukraine. Hungary has spoken out strongly against further steps towards EU accession. Hungarian Minister Szijjarto said that as long as the current Hungarian government remains in power, there will be no agreement on full Ukrainian membership.
According to Hungary, the proposals threaten the economic stability and labor markets in many EU countries. Therefore, Hungary maintains a ban on the import of Ukrainian agricultural products. Minister Nagy believes current agreements prioritize Ukraine’s interests above those of European farming communities and warns of negative consequences in border regions.
Just this week, a new trade agreement between Ukraine and the EU countries came into effect. It replaces the generous waiver of import duties that Brussels granted to Ukrainian exports over the past three years. The new trade deal includes provisions allowing Brussels to impose limits on imports of Ukrainian agricultural products if they become too detrimental to farmers in neighboring countries.