European Parliament voted for the suspension of EU import duties for Ukraine
The European Parliament supported the abolition of EU import duties on all Ukrainian exports for one year in order to support the country’s economy. Some 515 MPs voted in favor, 32 voted against and 11 abstained.
The European Parliament noted that the vote was a response to the consequences of Russia’s war which has been hampering Ukraine’s ability to trade with the rest of the world.
“In the face of Russian aggression, Ukraine is fighting not only for its own freedom and security, but for that of all of Europe. Therefore, we must support Ukraine at all levels with every tool at our disposal: not only with weapons and sanctions but with our trading power, too. Giving Ukraine the support it needs to defend itself does not end on the battlefield; it includes ensuring that Ukraine’s economy remains resilient and competitive”, said MEP and standing rapporteur for Ukraine Sandra Kalniete from Latvia.
The measures adopted include the full removal of import duties on industrial products, entry duties on fruit and vegetables, and anti-dumping duties and safeguard measures on steel imports for a period of one year.
The EU is Ukraine’s most important trading partner, accounting for more than 40% of its total trade in goods in 2021.
