News In Brief:
– Ukraine plans to introduce export licenses for certain agricultural products to alleviate tensions with Poland.
– Negotiations are also ongoing between Ukrainian and Polish officials on sensitive products and trade regulations, amidst concerns over fair competition and EU import caps.
Amid escalating tensions between Ukraine and Poland over agricultural exports, Ukraine’s agriculture minister, Mykola Solsky, has announced plans to implement export licenses for select cereals. This move comes in response to protests by Polish farmers, who have been blockading border posts since February, citing unfair competition from Ukrainian counterparts benefiting from EU dispensation.
Polish farmers’ discontent stems from Ukraine’s duty-free access to EU markets, granted in 2022 during Russia’s invasion. Warsaw has urged for EU-imposed import limits on Ukrainian goods, echoing its unilateral restrictions last year. Negotiations between the two nations have intensified, with discussions on sensitive products under a potential licensing system.
Solsky expressed willingness to engage in dialogue but remained cautious about the outcome. He emphasised Ukraine’s reliance on seaports for exports, redirecting a significant portion of agricultural products to global markets. Despite disappointment over EU restrictions, he highlighted Ukraine’s minimal impact on certain markets, citing examples like sugar and poultry.
While some EU members advocate for stricter regulations due to perceived underpricing and non-compliance with the bloc’s norms, Solsky countered, citing challenges faced by Ukrainian farmers, including higher input costs and logistical hurdles. He welcomed the EU’s move towards imposing import duties on Russian agricultural goods but urged for stronger action.
As negotiations continue, both Ukraine and Poland strive for a mutually beneficial resolution. Solsky’s proposed licensing system aims to address concerns while safeguarding Ukraine’s agricultural interests.
