Ukraine’s Access to the EU Market Will Continue During New Trade Negotiations
Ukraine will continue to have access to the European Union market after the expiration of the autonomous trade measures (ATM) on June 6, as negotiations for new cooperation terms are ongoing. This was stated by Taras Kachka, Deputy Minister of Economy and Trade Representative of Ukraine.
This is reported by AgroReview
Review of Trade Agreements with the EU
Last year, the parties agreed that after the expiration of the ATM in June 2025, the European Commission would initiate a review under Article 29 of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area Agreement (DCFTA). The goal is to expand access for Ukrainian goods to European markets and vice versa. Kachka noted that the review process under this article is progressing more slowly than planned due to external factors; however, efforts to find a solution are ongoing.
“And while the autonomous trade measures went as the European Commission planned, we have somewhat slowed down with Article 29 due to a number of various external circumstances. But I hope we will find this solution quite quickly. If not by June 6, then as quickly as possible after June 6,” the trade representative described the current situation.
According to Taras Kachka, during the negotiations for new trade liberalization parameters, Ukrainian producers will not lose access to the EU market. He emphasized that even if there is a return to pre-war trade conditions, the terms will remain favorable: tariffs on industrial goods will not be applied, and most agricultural products will also not be subject to tariffs.
Features of the Current Trade Balance
The trade representative noted that the autonomous trade measures were particularly beneficial for the export of sensitive goods and for transit during the period when Ukrainian ports were not operational. However, today, when the ports have resumed operations, the significance of the ATM in terms of transit has diminished.
As of the results for 2023–2024, Ukraine and the EU have achieved a balance in trade, although Ukraine has a significant trade deficit—imports nearly double exports. Kachka emphasized the need to maintain existing trade conditions or even make them more liberal, but under control. He highlighted that the dialogue with the European Commission is constructive; however, the final decision regarding future cooperation terms is still under discussion.