Poland and Hungary no longer want to import grain from Ukraine – to protect their own producers, both governments announced on Saturday. Recently, extensive supplies from Ukraine have depressed prices and sales of domestic producers. Ukraine said it regretted the move and would like to talk.
After some ports on the Black Sea were also blocked during the Russian invasion of Ukraine, there are large quantities of Ukrainian grain in neighboring countries. In March, several Eastern European countries wrote to the European Commission that imports of Ukrainian grain, oilseeds, eggs, poultry and sugar had reached unprecedented heights. Therefore, tariffs on Ukrainian agricultural products should be considered. However, the European Union has extended duty-free imports of Ukrainian grain until June 2024. This poses a problem for Poland’s ruling PiS party, especially as there are parliamentary elections this year.
PiS leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski confirmed at a party conference on Saturday that Poland would continue to support Ukraine. “We are and will remain friends and allies of Ukraine.” But it is “the duty of every state, every authority, at least a good authority, to protect the interests of its citizens”. As a result, the government issued an ordinance banning the import of grain and dozens of other foods, including honey products. However, Poland is ready for talks with Ukraine and the government in Kiev has been informed about the procedure.
Hungary sees enormous damage for local farmers
In Hungary, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said the current situation is seriously damaging local farmers. That is why his country is also imposing an import ban on grain and other foodstuffs from Ukraine. However, it was initially unclear when it would come into effect. Hungary was also said to be hoping for changes to EU regulations. The abolition of import duties on Ukrainian grain should also be considered.
Ukraine with understanding – and even more incomprehension
The Ukrainian Ministry of Agriculture said the Polish ban violates bilateral export agreements. There must be conversations to resolve the issue. It is clear that Polish farmers are in a difficult situation. The situation of Ukrainian farmers is currently even more difficult.
Source: Krone
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