The European Parliament’s International Trade Committee has given its green light on Monday for a one-year suspension of all EU import duties on Ukrainian exports to support the country’s economy.
The temporary trade liberalisation of Ukrainian products includes the full removal of import duties on industrial products, of entry duties on fruit and vegetables, and of anti-dumping duties and safeguard measures on steel imports for a period of one year.
Relations between the EU and Ukraine are regulated by an Association Agreement. The Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area covered by the agreement has ensured preferential access to the EU market for Ukrainian businesses since 2016. The EU is Ukraine’s most important trading partner, accounting for more than 40% of its total trade in goods in 2021. In return, Ukraine has been the EU’s 15th largest trading partner, representing around 1.2% of overall EU trade.
The draft report is expected to be fast-tracked for a vote by all MEPs on 19 May. The measure will apply on the day following its publication in the Official Journal of the EU.
Visiting the 🇺🇦#Ukraine–#Poland🇵🇱 border in #Dorohusk, ECR MEP @L_P_Berg commends the soldiers and volunteers welcoming and caring from those Ukrainians who have fled their homes and crossed the border to seek refuge.#StandWithUkraine️ https://t.co/fHYK2lPXkI
— ECR Group (@ecrgroup) March 4, 2022