International freight carriage: Serhii Derkach holds meeting with the European Business Association

A meeting took place between member companies of the European Business Association and Deputy Minister for Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine, Serhiy Derkach.

The main topic of discussion was the extension of the Agreement on the Liberalization of Freight Transport between Ukraine and the EU—commonly known as the ‘transport visa-free’ regime—as well as further steps in developing the market for international road transportation in the context of European integration.

It should be noted that on September 25, the European Union and Ukraine extended the Agreement for 15 months—until March 31, 2027. The document stipulates bilateral and transit freight transportation between Ukraine and the EU without special permits, ensuring logistics stability and supporting Ukrainian exports and essential imports.

During the meeting, Serhii Derkach noted that Ukraine is committed to continuing reforms in the field of road transport aimed at further aligning Ukrainian legislation with the requirements of the European Union.

"We are working to make the temporary regime of transport liberalization permanent. This is only possible if we harmonize our rules with European standards. Business is our partner in this process, as it feels the impact of every regulatory step. In turn, we are grateful for the ongoing dialogue and support for important initiatives on the part of businesses," emphasized the Deputy Minister.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the conditions for further extending the liberalization of transportation after March 2027. This will depend, in particular, on:

- Implementation of a ‘business reputation’ mechanism for transport companies by the end of 2026; 

- Requirement for each company to have a trained manager, with plans allowing one manager to oversee up to five companies and 50 vehicles; 

- Gradual introduction of smart tachographs: starting July 1, 2026, all vehicles newly registered in Ukraine must be equipped with these. 

The issuance of smart tachograph cards will begin in Ukraine by the end of October this year. Technical servicing for these tachographs is already available, with 12 service centers currently operating, and their number is expected to increase to 40 by the end of the year. 

Additionally, conducting an independent study on the Agreement’s impact on the markets of Ukraine and the EU, particularly regarding compliance with liberalization conditions, is deemed crucial. 

During the meeting, the parties also addressed other European integration plans in the road transport sector, including the introduction of a ‘financial stability’ mechanism for transport companies. 

It is worth noting that, following the onset of the full-scale war and the shift in logistics routes, road transport has become critically important for ensuring the export and import of goods.