Ukraine could bring greater efficiency to the EU agricultural sector

Ukraine could strengthen the competitiveness of the EU agricultural sector through higher production efficiency, Ukraine’s Ambassador to the EU Taras Kachka said. According to him, Ukrainian agriculture already uses modern equipment and has strong positions in grain, oilseed, vegetable oil and poultry production.

Kachka stressed that Ukraine’s agricultural sector should not be viewed solely as a sector dominated by large agricultural holdings. The country has a significant number of small farmers who will require dedicated support and access to appropriate infrastructure during the EU integration process.

At the same time, he said the sector’s further development should not be limited to primary commodity production. Ukraine has potential to expand production of finished goods, develop deeper processing, technology-based segments, organic production and other niche markets.

The ambassador noted that the entry of Ukrainian producers into the European market would increase competition, but could also improve the overall efficiency of EU agriculture. Some European farmers remain cautious about this prospect.

Kachka also identified small producers and veteran farming as areas that will require support during integration. According to him, the relevant infrastructure is already being developed: a Paying Agency started operating on July 1, while funding is expected to be gradually added to the government’s agricultural support strategy.

Tags: Ukraine, grain, EU, oilseeds, edible oils