Kiev is considering suing Poland, Hungary and Slovakia over bans on Ukrainian agricultural products, media outlet Politico reported. Furthermore, on Monday, the magazine cited Taras Kachka, a Ukrainian trade representative. He mentioned that Kiev would consider reciprocal measures towards Poland, however Warsaw would not reverse its additional measures. “We would be forced to retaliate on the additional products and ban the import of fruits and vegetables from Poland,” he said. This could create an impasse between the countries involved.
This situation exemplifies the growing tensions in the region. On the one hand, Ukraine seeks to defend its business interests and retaliate against the bans. On the other hand, the countries that imposed the bans have their own justifications. Furthermore, it is essential to consider a diplomatic resolution to avoid escalating conflicts. After all, cooperation is essential for stability and mutual development in Europe.
Furthermore, he mentioned that Kiev would consider reciprocal measures towards Poland if Warsaw did not reverse its additional measures. “We would be forced to retaliate on the additional products and ban the import of fruits and vegetables from Poland,” he said.
In May, the European Union restricted Ukrainian cereals. This allowed a ban on domestic sales through Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia, while allowing transit for export.
The restriction expired last week. Warsaw, Bratislava and Budapest have announced bans on Ukrainian cereals. They claimed protection of their economies and farmers.
The three countries have complained that an excess of Ukrainian cereals threatens their domestic markets. “I think Hungary is making a political statement here that it wants to block trade with Ukraine and also completely ignore Brussels. And that’s why I think this is a very bold move against both of us from Budapest,” he said.
Tensions and Implications in the Commercial Relationship between Ukraine and the EU
The EU allowed its ban to expire on Friday after Ukraine said it would take steps to tighten controls on exports to neighboring countries.
Kachka said Kiev was ready to “take responsibility for ensuring that Ukraine’s exports do not create any tsunami in neighboring countries” and that it would impose a “real-time” export license system for grain. On the other hand, the Ukrainian official also highlighted that the decision to apply its bans without EU support raised “the biggest systemic concern” if partners cannot trust that Brussels speaks on behalf of the bloc.
According to Politico, Kiev also plans to sue countries in the World Trade Organization, rather than through its trade agreement with the EU. “I think the whole world should see how EU member states behave towards trading partners and their own union, because this can also influence other states,” he added.
Source: Al Jazeera | agrolink
