The EU supports extending access for Ukrainian food for an additional year

European Union lawmakers have voted to extend tariff-free access to EU markets for Ukrainian food producers for another year.

Proposed amendments that could have tightened restrictions were rejected. The European Commission recommended prolonging the suspension of duties and quotas until June 2025, a proposal that received approval from the European Parliament's trade committee, with 26 members in favor, 10 against, and one abstention.

In response to concerns raised by EU farmers, an "emergency brake" mechanism was introduced for poultry, eggs, and sugar. This mechanism allows tariffs to be imposed if imports exceed the average levels from 2022 and 2023. These measures were introduced in 2022 following Russia's invasion, which disrupted shipments via the Black Sea.

Despite opposition and proposed amendments, the vote clears the way for final approval from the full parliament and EU governments, with a majority already supporting the extension. Additionally, lawmakers endorsed a similar extension for agricultural imports from Moldova.