Ukraine expects to announce new EU trade deal soon — trade envoy Kachka

Ukraine hopes to soon announce the conclusion of a bilateral agreement with the European Union concerning an updated free trade arrangement, Deputy Economy Minister and Trade Representative Taras Kachka said at the “State and Business: From Dialogue to Partnership” forum, LIGA.net reports.

Kachka noted that Ukraine successfully defended its positions on liberalizing trade in value-added goods. At the same time, raw materials remain the most sensitive category, he said.

“This will not be a temporary or unilateral arrangement [like the EU’s previous autonomous trade measures], but a stable, bilateral agreement as part of the updated free trade deal,” Kachka emphasized.

He also acknowledged the complexity of the negotiations with the EU.

“In reality, every success we achieve in the EU becomes a problem — because each success leads to new pressure to reduce access or increase competition. That’s why negotiations are difficult. But it also means we’ve had many successes on this market. I believe we’ll see some very interesting figures. Announcements will come very soon, and they’ll be positive,” he added.