**Ukraine Seeks Extension of EU Trade Liberalization Mechanism**
The Ukrainian government is pushing for an extension of its current trade liberalization mechanism with the European Union. The mechanism, which allows Ukraine to export goods duty-free and quota-free, is set to expire on June 5. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal hopes that the EU will extend it until the end of 2025.
**Importance of Extension**
Shmyhal emphasized the importance of extending the Autonomous Trade Measures (ATMs) until the end of 2025. This would give Ukraine more time to incorporate conditions for free trade into Article 29 of the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU. The ATMs were introduced by the EU in June 2022 to provide temporary tariff-free access for Ukrainian goods.
**No New Unilateral Trade Preferences**
According to European Pravda, a senior EU official familiar with the negotiations has stated that Brussels does not plan to implement new unilateral trade preferences for Ukraine once the current package expires. This means that if the extension is not granted, Ukrainian exporters will no longer have access to the EU market without tariffs and quotas.
**Ukraine’s Pragmatic Approach**
Shmyhal acknowledged that Ukraine has already integrated into the European market and emphasized a pragmatic approach in discussions with EU partners. He expressed optimism about resolving the issue, saying that “partners hear us very well, partners understand Ukraine’s needs.” Shmyhal also highlighted the importance of maintaining cooperation between Ukraine and the EU.
**Broader Context**
Ukraine’s ongoing negotiations with the EU are part of broader efforts to ensure continued access to the European market and maintain vital trade benefits as the country navigates its path forward. The extension of the trade liberalization mechanism would provide much-needed stability for Ukrainian exporters and help maintain momentum in the country’s integration into the EU.
**What’s Next?**
The fate of Ukraine’s trade liberalization mechanism will be decided by the EU. While Shmyhal expressed optimism, it remains to be seen whether the EU will grant an extension or not. One thing is certain: the extension would provide Ukraine with more time to adapt and ensure continued access to the European market.
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