EU to Eliminate Customs Duties for Ukrainian Ag Products
The Council of the European Union on Oct. 13 agreed to eliminate customs duties on various agricultural products from Ukraine, including dairy products, fresh fruits and vegetables, meat and meat preparations, the council said.
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The decision follows the preliminary agreement between the European Commission and Ukraine in June on the review of the EU-Ukraine Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area, which looks to establish a "long-term, predictable and reciprocal trade framework within the broader context of Ukraine's accession process," the council said.
The announcement also said that Ukraine's market access is contingent on its "gradual alignment with EU production standards on animal welfare, pesticides and veterinary medicines." The EU will set up a safeguard mechanism that "either party can activate in the event of market disruption," and it will ensure market access for sensitive products, such as sugar, poultry, eggs, wheat, maize and honey, "remains more limited and gradual."
The decision must next be approved by the EU-Ukraine Association Committee.