Ukraine’s Accession to the EU Could Boost the Country’s GDP by 26%

Ukraine’s accession to the European Union has the potential to become a powerful economic stimulus for the country and its neighbors in Central Europe. According to estimates from the Polish Economic Institute, Ukraine’s real gross domestic product could grow by 26% following integration into the EU. A positive effect is also expected for the countries in the region — particularly Poland, Hungary, and Lithuania, which will also receive economic benefits, albeit to a lesser extent.

This is reported by AgroReview

Strengthening Economic Ties with Central Europe

From 2021 to 2024, exports from Central European countries to Ukraine increased by 75%, rising from €13.7 billion to a historic high of €24 billion. Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Lithuania, Romania, and Bulgaria remain key trading partners for Ukraine in the region, accounting for half of all imports into the country. Central European states also receive a quarter of all Ukrainian exports, with Poland receiving 10%, making it the largest recipient of Ukrainian goods. In terms of trade volume, Warsaw ranks second among Kyiv’s partners, trailing only China.

Military Equipment and Growth in Other Sectors

Experts emphasize that a significant contribution to the growth of mutual trade has come from military equipment, but other sectors are also showing steady growth. Trade volumes have already surpassed pre-war levels, creating favorable conditions for further development of economic relations after the war ends.

“It is expected that Ukraine’s GDP could grow by 26%, and neighboring countries, including Poland, Hungary, and Lithuania, will also receive economic benefits, although they will be more modest.”