Ukrainian farmers are interested in extending duty-free trade with the UK. This issue, as well as the issue of development of the agricultural sector of Ukraine and the agrarian reform, were discussed during a meeting in London by First Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Economy of Ukraine Yuliia Svyrydenko and Minister of State for Food, Farming and Fisheries at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs of the United Kingdom Mark Spencer.

“We are grateful for the contribution of the United Kingdom, which joined the Grain from Ukraine initiative of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, to purchase Ukrainian grain worth GBP 5 million for countries on the verge of starvation. This is an extremely important humanitarian mission that will save many lives,” said Yuliia Svyrydenko.

According to Yuliia Svyrydenko, Ukraine is interested in extending the duty-free trade with the UK, introduced for one year by the Agreement No. 1 to amend the Political, Free Trade and Strategic Partnership Agreement between Ukraine and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The decision largely concerned the products of the agrarian sector and was extremely supportive to Ukrainian farmers in difficult times of war.

The parties also discussed the issue of trade in animal products. Namely, zoning for bird flu.

As it was noted during the meeting, agrarian reforms are currently underway in both countries. And Ukraine is interested in exchanging information, experience and dialogue on the progress of reforms with the UK.

Following the meeting the parties agreed to keep in touch and intensify work on the issues discussed and other topical issues.