Ukrainian Freight Liberalization Agreement Extended to Boost Trade with EU

Ukrainian officials have announced the extension of a freight liberalisation agreement that allows Ukrainian cargo to enter the EU without a transport permit. This agreement, signed in 2022, eliminates the need for Ukrainian carriers to obtain permits for bilateral and transit transport to the EU. It also ensures that exports of Ukrainian products can bypass road checkpoints, facilitating smoother trade operations.

The extension of this agreement is crucial, especially in light of the blockade of Ukrainian Black Sea ports following the Russian invasion in February 2022. This has significantly impacted imports and exports, making the liberalisation agreement even more vital for maintaining trade flow. Despite its benefits, the increased traffic at Ukraine’s borders with the EU has sparked protests from hauliers in neighboring countries.

Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Kuleba emphasized the importance of the agreement’s extension for Ukraine’s economy and exporters. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal also expressed his approval of the development, highlighting that this is the fourth extension of the agreement, underscoring its effectiveness and efficiency. The continuation of this agreement is seen as a positive step towards supporting Ukraine’s economy and trade relationships with the EU.

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