Polish carriers refuse to lift border blockade after talks with Ukraine

Polish trucking representatives have said the latest talks with Ukrainian officials had failed to end a dispute over what they call unfair competition from the neighbouring country’s businesses, AFP reports.

The hauliers say the easing of EU access rules in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has led to an influx of Ukrainian competition, taking a serious toll on their earnings.

In response, Polish truckers began blockades last week of three major border crossings.

On Monday, some of the protesting truckers met with representatives of the Ukrainian and Polish governments.

“We have not reached an agreement. The Ukrainian side does not take our demands into account,” said Rafal Mekler, a leader of a protest in the border town of Dorohusk.

Polish transportation companies want to reinstate the use of EU entry permits for Ukrainian trucks, a system waived by the bloc following Russia’s invasion.

Tags: Ukraine, Poland, restrictions