Ukraine will move forward with the long-delayed reform of customs, a commission will be formed to select a new chief

**Ukraine Takes Step Towards Customs Reform**

Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko has taken a significant step towards reforming Ukraine’s customs service. On August 1, she announced that Finance Minister Serhii Marchenko will head the commission to select a new chief for the State Customs Service.

This move is crucial in fulfilling Ukraine’s commitments to its international partners, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The overhaul of the customs service has been a long-standing requirement. Svyrydenko emphasized the importance of transparency and professionalism in the selection process. She wants the customs service to become a modern, service-oriented institution that meets European Union standards.

**A Year’s Delay in Implementing Customs Reform**

The formation of a new leadership structure is part of a broader customs reform law passed by Ukraine’s parliament last year. However, despite its approval and President Volodymyr Zelensky’s signature, the reform has remained largely unimplemented for nearly 12 months.

The legislation mandates a transparent competition for the post of customs chief with international organizations involved, as well as the re-certification of all customs staff within 18 months of the new head’s appointment. It also introduces safeguards for the political independence of the customs chief, making it difficult to dismiss them based on audit results.

**A Missed Deadline and Criticism from Western Partners**

This move comes after Ukraine failed to meet another IMF requirement by missing a July 31 deadline to appoint a new head for the Economic Security Bureau. The government rejected the nominee selected by an independent panel, sparking criticism from anti-corruption advocates and Western partners.

The establishment of this commission is a step in the right direction towards implementing long-overdue customs reforms in Ukraine. As the country continues to navigate its international commitments, it’s essential that such reforms are carried out transparently and with the involvement of international organizations.