Parliament backs extension of trade liberalisation measure for Ukrainian imports

MEPs voted on Thursday to renew the suspension of import duties and quotas for certain imports from Ukraine, such as iron and steel, due to expire on 5 June 2025.

With the adoption of the Autonomous Trade Measures (ATM) Regulation, the EU liberalised trade with Ukraine by suspending trade defence measures on 4 June 2022. This exemption has since been renewed, with the most recent extension due to expire on 5 June.

MEPs have now approved the proposed prolongation of these trade liberalisation measures, which focus steel, to provide Ukraine with vital export revenues.

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Parliament’s rapporteur Karin Karlsbro (Renew, SE) said: ”Ukraine’s steel industry is the backbone of the Ukrainian economy. It continues to deliver, despite many workers having left the steel plants to fight on the front lines and factories being subjected to severe attacks by Russia. The deepening of trade relations between the EU and Ukraine is not a matter of charity, but a mutually beneficial exchange that strengthens both parties.”

The proposal was adopted by 354 votes in favour and 147 against, with 53 abstentions. The new regulation will enter into force for three years, until June 2028, once an agreement has been reached with the Council.

The Commission is currently working on a longer-term solution to offer economic certainty for EU-Ukraine trade.