More Ukrainian agricultural and food products may be duty-free

The decision aims to facilitate Ukraine’s economic integration with the EU, while the country gradually adapts to EU animal welfare, plant protection and food safety standards.

The tariff relief affects several product groups, including dairy products, fresh fruit, vegetables, and meat and meat products. For the most sensitive products, such as sugar, poultry, eggs, wheat, maize and honey, market opening will remain gradual.

According to the Council’s statement, the measure aims to create predictable, mutually beneficial trading conditions and strengthen economic relations between the EU and Ukraine in the long term. In the event of market disruption, the parties may also apply safeguard mechanisms.

The decision still needs to be approved by the trade body of the European Union-Ukraine Association Committee. The measure aims to accelerate the elimination of tariffs and further expand EU-Ukraine trade.