Kyiv [Ukraine], September 16: The unilateral restrictions were introduced after the European Union refused to extend the ban on Ukrainian grain entering the markets of these countries.
Poland, Slovakia and Hungary announced their own restrictions on grain imports from Ukraine after the European Commission decided not to extend the ban, Reuters reported.
Specifically, Ukraine is one of the world's leading grain exporters. However, the fighting has reduced the country's ability to transport agricultural products to global markets. Therefore, Ukrainian farmers have to export agricultural products to neighboring countries.
However, the influx of grain into neighboring countries has reduced prices in these countries, affecting the income of local farmers and leading to the government banning agricultural imports from Ukraine.
The European Union (EU) in May stepped in to prevent countries in the bloc from unilaterally imposing a ban on Ukrainian grain. Under the EU ban, Ukrainian agricultural products are allowed to pass through neighboring countries on the condition that the products are sold elsewhere.
The regulation expired on September 15, after Ukraine committed to implementing measures to tighten export controls to neighboring countries.
Speaking after deciding not to extend the ban, EU Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis said countries should refrain from unilateral measures against Ukraine's grain imports. However, Poland, Slovakia and Hungary disagree.
Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki emphasized: "We will extend this ban despite their disagreement, despite the disagreement of the European Commission. We will do it because it is in the interest of farmers." Polish people".
Hungary said it would block 24 Ukrainian products, up from four previously. Items on the new banned list include cereals, rapeseed and sunflower seeds, flour, cooking oil, honey, some meats and eggs, according to France24.
Meanwhile, the Slovakian Ministry of Agriculture announced that it will ban the import of four products from Ukraine, including wheat, until the end of this year. However, the regulation only applies to domestic imports and does not affect shipments to other markets.
Meanwhile, Romania expressed regret that the EU could not find a common solution on this issue.
The Romanian government is waiting for a solution presentation from Ukraine "on effective control measures" before deciding on appropriate measures to protect farmers.
Source: ThanhNien Newspaper
