In Brussels, EU member states and lawmakers reached an agreement on Wednesday to limit duty-free imports of certain Ukrainian agricultural products. This move comes in response to intense protests from farmers across the bloc, who argue that an influx of cheap Ukrainian goods is undercutting their livelihoods.
The new deal renews the tariff exemptions granted to Ukraine in 2022 for another year but introduces “safeguards” on specific products. Oats, eggs, poultry, sugar, maize, groats, and honey are now subject to import caps to prevent market saturation. Wheat and barley, however, remain exempt from these safeguards.
The European Parliament highlighted that the regulation “provides for an emergency brake for poultry, eggs, and sugar,” aiming to balance support for Ukraine’s economy with the interests of EU farmers.
The EU initially lifted tariffs on Ukrainian imports to bolster Ukraine’s economy during the ongoing conflict with Russia. However, as the conflict extends into its second year, EU farmers have expressed growing concerns. They contend that Ukrainian producers, not bound by the EU’s stringent regulations—particularly regarding animal welfare—can offer products at lower prices, disrupting local markets.
The situation has sparked widespread demonstrations among farming communities in several EU countries. Farmers are demanding fair competition and urging the EU to adjust its policies to protect their industries.
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EU to cap imports of Ukrainian poultry and grains to appease farmers
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