**EU’s Tariff Quota Reinstatement Sparks Criticism from Ukraine**
Ukraine’s Agriculture Minister, Vitalii Koval, has urged the EU to finalize a long-term trade framework by July. His plea comes as the EU is set to reinstate tariff quotas on Ukrainian agricultural exports starting June 6th, 2025. This decision has sparked sharp criticism from Minister Koval, who warns that it could cost Ukraine between €2.8 billion and €3.5 billion in 2025 alone.
**A Blow to Trade Liberalization**
In 2022, the EU granted full trade liberalization to Ukraine’s agricultural exports as a gesture of solidarity following Russia’s invasion. However, with the EU returning to 2017 tariff quotas, this measure will be rolled back. The European Commission claims that these changes are temporary and meant to create space for talks on a permanent arrangement. This reversal has been pushed for by several EU member states with large farming sectors.
**Economic Harm and Moral Losses**
Minister Koval’s criticism goes beyond economic concerns. He believes that the EU’s decision will also have a negative impact on public morale in Ukraine, describing it as a “moral loss” rather than just an economic setback. The reintroduction of pre-2022 trade restrictions undermines efforts to integrate Ukraine into the EU’s single market.
**What Does This Mean for Ukraine?**
The reinstatement of tariff quotas will undoubtedly have significant economic implications for Ukraine. As Minister Koval pointed out, this could lead to substantial losses in exports and revenue. Furthermore, it may undermine Ukraine’s efforts to become a part of the EU’s single market. The impact on public morale should not be underestimated either – the decision to reinstate trade restrictions may be perceived as a lack of support from the EU during these challenging times.
**A Lasting Impact?**
The consequences of this decision will likely be far-reaching, with potential long-term effects on Ukraine’s economy and its relationship with the EU. Minister Koval has urged the EU to finalize a long-term trade framework by July. Will this lead to a more permanent arrangement, or will it mark a lasting impact on Ukraine’s trade relations? Only time will tell.
Read More @ euromaidanpress.com
