Council adopts decision to reduce customs duties on EU-Ukraine agri-food trade
The Council of the European Union (EU) has adopted a decision setting out the EU's position within the EU-Ukraine Association Committee regarding the reduction or elimination of customs duties on agri-food products, including dairy products, fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and meat preparations. The decision follows the preliminary agreement on the review of the EU-Ukraine Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area reached between the European Commission and Ukraine on 30 June 2025. The agreed EU position will enhance trade flows between the EU and Ukraine, while ensuring that Ukraine's market access is contingent on its gradual alignment with EU production standards on animal welfare, pesticides and veterinary medicines. The decision also introduces a safeguard mechanism that either party can activate in the event of market disruption. Market access for sensitive products, such as sugar, poultry, eggs, wheat, maize and honey, will remain limited and gradual, with full liberalisation considered only for certain non-sensitive products, such as milk and milk products. The EU-Ukraine Association Committee will subsequently adopt this decision as part of the review process under Article 29(4) of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement.