Rapid exports of Ukrainian flour to China unlikely despite market opening

Ukraine has gained access to China’s wheat flour market, but a rapid start to exports is unlikely. This was stated by Rodion Rybchynskyi, head of the “Flour Millers of Ukraine” Union.

According to him, the signing of the protocol only creates a foundation for future shipments but does not guarantee quick commercial results.

One of China’s key requirements is full traceability of products — from finished flour back to the origin of the wheat. Rybchynskyi noted that implementing such a system will take time.

In addition, the economics of exports remain challenging. High tariffs, VAT, requirements for large shipment volumes, as well as risks to port infrastructure and expensive logistics complicate entry into this market.

Rybchynskyi emphasized that China should currently be viewed as a strategic direction rather than a market for immediate exports.

It is worth noting that in early April, Ukraine and China agreed on the rules for exporting wheat flour. The relevant protocol was signed by Ukraine’s State Service on Food Safety and Consumer Protection and China’s General Administration of Customs.