For the past three years, Ukrainian agricultural products could enter the EU with virtually no restrictions. This arrangement was intended to economically support Ukraine amid the war against the Russian invasion. As of June 6, restrictions are again in place: 40 product groups are once again subject to import quotas or tariffs (UNN, Reuters). According to Ukrainian sources, these mainly include sugar, grains, poultry, and eggs.
The European Commission and Ukraine have agreed to finalize a new trade model by the end of next month at the latest. Kyiv is pushing for a framework that provides stability for Ukrainian exporters. However, both parties have not yet agreed on the details, primarily due to EU member states’ concerns about market disruption.
According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Economy, the trade regime with the EU remains largely free except for the 40 mentioned product groups. In practice, Ukrainian agricultural companies will still have access to the European market for a few more months since the quotas are expected to be reached on average after 2 to 3 months, experts say.
The anticipated consequences are substantial. Ukrainian agricultural exporters are expected to face more administrative hurdles and market restrictions in the short term. At the same time, European farmers are hoping for more breathing space. Nevertheless, uncertainty remains over the longer-term developments since negotiations over a new agreement are ongoing.
In neighboring countries such as Poland and Romania, there have been repeated farmers’ protests in recent years against cheap Ukrainian agricultural imports. They complained about unfair competition. However, according to the European Commission, many of these products were not sold on the EU market but were further exported to countries outside the EU.
The European Commission emphasizes that the resumed use of quotas seeks to balance support for Ukraine with protection of the internal market. For Kyiv, however, it is important that long-term barriers do not arise that could structurally harm its export position.
The political negotiations over a full and final trade agreement between Ukraine and the EU are progressing slowly. Kyiv wants an arrangement that anticipates Ukraine’s accession to the EU, while some EU countries hesitate due to pressure from their own agricultural sectors.