There will be no embargo on Ukrainian products? EU: There is no justification

After the new EU trade agreement with Ukraine enters into force, there is no justification for extending the import bans imposed by some countries, European Commission spokesman Olof Gill said on Friday, referring to the maintenance of the embargo on Ukrainian products by Poland, Slovakia and Hungary.

On Wednesday, the new EU trade agreement with Ukraine entered into force, negotiated by the European Commission with the government in Kiev and accepted by member states on October 13. The agreement establishes customs exemptions that are beneficial for Ukraine – compared to the current, temporary situation – but at the same time introduces a protective mechanism that will allow for a quick response in the event of market disruptions.

The Polish Ministry of Agriculture informed PAP on Wednesday that despite the agreement coming into force in Poland, there is still an embargo on imports of certain products from Ukraine, mainly cereals.

The EC spokesman expressed his belief that the agreement “has achieved the right balance.” “We believe there is no justification for extending the import bans imposed by member states,” Gill said.

– Based on this belief, we will now work with the above-mentioned Member States to persuade them to lift these bans. That's the only thing we're going to focus on right now, and that's our priority. We will consider all other options only if these talks do not bring the desired result – he added. (PAP)

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