The International Trade Commission gave the go-ahead on Thursday for another one-year suspension of EU import duties on Ukrainian exports. This is to support the country's economy.
Members of the International Trade Committee approved a proposal to extend the suspension of import duties, anti-dumping duties and protective measures on Ukrainian exports to the European Union for another year. This is due to Russia's aggressive war, which makes it difficult for Ukraine to trade with the rest of the world.
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The tariff suspension applies to fruit and vegetables covered by the entry price system and agricultural and processed agricultural products subject to tariff quotas. Industrial products are subject to zero duty from 1 January 2023 under the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, so they are not covered by the new proposal.
MEPs adopted by 27 votes in favour, 1 against and 7 abstentions, the committee's draft report, prepared by Standing Rapporteur on Ukraine, Sandra Kalniete (EPP, LV).
These measures are key to strengthening Ukraine's resilience
“I strongly support the renewal of the trade liberalization measures they currently help deliver Ukraine has continuity and stability of trade in the face of a brutal war caused by Russia. These measures are crucial to strengthen Ukraine's resilience in the present and for the future, as we work to gradually integrate Ukraine into the EU internal market. Our solidarity with Ukraine is consistent, transparent and solid, which has also been further strengthened by Ukraine's status as an EU candidate. Ukraine's future is in the European Union," said Sandra Kalniete.
Preferential access to the EU market
Relations between the EU and Ukraine are governed by the Association Agreement. The Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area included in the agreement has been providing Ukrainian companies with preferential access to the EU market since 2016.
According to the Commission, the EU is Ukraine's largest trading partner, accounting for 39,5% of its trade in 2021. Ukraine is the EU's 15th largest trading partner, accounting for around 1,2% of total EU trade.
The draft report is due to be voted on by all MEPs during the plenary session on 8-11 May. The measure will enter into force the day after its publication in the Official Journal of the EU.
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Source: European Parliament, Photo: European Parliament/EP plenary session
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