Oilseed export duties could cost Ukraine’s agribusiness up to US$ 10 mln monthly — AmCham

The American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine (AmCham) warns that export duties on soybeans and rapeseed, introduced on September 4, have already disrupted foreign exchange earnings worth up to $2 billion and threaten businesses with monthly losses of $5–10 million.

According to AmCham, the lack of clarity in applying the zero-duty rate for producers has left Ukrainian Black Sea ports clogged with rapeseed and soy cargoes and railways blocked with wagons. Exporters are unable to ship products, incurring demurrage, additional storage and insurance costs, and penalties for breaching contracts with foreign partners.

The Chamber stressed that the amendment to Law No. 4536-IX was adopted in violation of parliamentary procedures and tax stability principles. It contradicts Ukraine’s EU integration path, worsens the investment climate, and poses risks to the rule of law.

“At least nine vessels are currently idling, and preliminary estimates put potential business losses at $5–10 million per month,” the statement read.

AmCham urged the government to promptly submit legislation to repeal the duties on soybeans and rapeseed and introduce a mechanism for unconditional reimbursement of already paid amounts.