According to a statement issued to the Meat.Milk. editorial office by the European Commission, the suspension of import duties and quotas for Ukrainian exports to the European Union has been extended for another year following the adoption of the regulation by the European Council.

This is yet another demonstration of the EU's commitment to stand by Ukraine and support it for as long as necessary. Known as "autonomous trade measures," these actions are a key pillar of the EU's support for Ukraine's economy. They facilitate Ukraine's access to the EU market amidst the ongoing Russian aggression against the country.

These measures also take into account the concerns of EU stakeholders and include both a reinforced safeguard mechanism and the possibility of applying an "emergency brake" on imports of eggs, poultry, sugar, oats, corn, groats, and honey. The new autonomous trade measures will apply until June 5, 2025.

Valdis Dombrovskis, Executive Vice-President and Commissioner for Trade, stated: "This renewal of the EU's strong economic support for Ukraine comes at a crucial time as the country faces a new large-scale military attack. The autonomous trade measures are not just a gesture of solidarity and stability.

They are a lifeline for the economy. At the same time, they now include stronger safeguards for the EU's sensitive agricultural sectors, addressing the legitimate concerns raised by our farmers and member states.

We have struck the right balance, but we continue to work on finding longer-term solutions within the framework of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement. By doing so, we send a clear message: Ukraine's future lies at the heart of the European Union."