Ukraine has completed the official screening of its legislation's compliance with EU norms under the Free Movement of Goods negotiating chapter. The meeting took place through 3 to 6 March at the EC headquarters in Brussels. The delegation was headed by Olha Stefanishyna, Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine/ Minister of Justice of Ukraine. The delegation also included Deputy Minister of Economy Vitalii Kindrativ and Deputy Minister of Economy - Trade Representative of Ukraine Taras Kachka.

Preparations for the screening lasted six months and included interaction between government agencies, structural units of the Ministry of Economy and the Government Office for Coordination of European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine.

"The free movement of goods is one of the key freedoms of the EU single market, which allows to eliminate technical barriers to trade between member states. During the screening, we offered more than 44 presentations to the European Commission on 59 acts of EU law regulating industrial products. The European side highly appreciated our progress in harmonising regulations and fulfilling our commitments under the Association Agreement," said Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine Vitalii Kindrativ.

He stressed that in the future, the implementation of this section would allow Ukrainian products to be exported to the EU market. By becoming a member of the EU, Ukraine will become an integral part of the single market where all member states apply the same rules. This will ensure a higher level of quality not only for foreign goods placed on the domestic market, but also for Ukrainian goods.

"The answers to the questions provided, as well as additional explanations provided during the screening, will provide EU members with the necessary information on the opportunities and benefits of cooperation with Ukraine," added Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine Vitalii Kindrativ.

He noted that despite the numerous obstacles Ukraine had faced - from the global economic crisis to the devastating effects of russian aggression - our commitment to progress remains unwavering. The ongoing full-scale war has brought enormous challenges, but it has also highlighted the country's resilience, ingenuity and determination to work hard and move forward.

"We are proud of the progress we have already made, including reforms in the quality infrastructure. However, we recognise that the road ahead requires even more effort. Harmonisation of technical requirements across all sectors, especially in high-risk areas, is crucial to remove barriers that can impede the free movement of goods," added Vitalii Kindrativ.