EU approves more exports from Ukraine over three years
The European Union is allowing Ukraine to sell more industrial and agricultural goods to the bloc free of tariffs. The measure comes in recognition of reform efforts taken by Kiev to bolster the country's fragile economy.
Starting from the end of September Ukraine will have the opportunity to export more farm products, including grains, honey, and processed tomatoes for three years.
The EU will also remove import duties on fertilizers, dyes, footwear, copper, aluminum, televisions and sound recording equipment for the same period.
The measures broaden the free trade agreement that has been provisionally in place since January 2016. The pact has reportedly opened both markets for goods and services.
“With today's decision, we are allowing more Ukrainian products to be exported to the EU. It is our duty to support Ukraine and strengthen our economic and political ties, also in the face of the ongoing conflict on its soil,” said Estonian Foreign Minister Sven Mikser said, as quoted by Reuters.
Last week, the EU finalized the long-awaited association deal with Ukraine.
The pact reportedly aims at creating a free trade area, enhancing cooperation in foreign and security policies between Ukraine and the 28-country bloc.
At the same time, the EU Council highlighted that the deal neither gives Ukraine the status of a candidate country for accession to the bloc nor granted the right for Ukrainians to live or work freely in the EU.
