Ministry of Finance of Ukraine and the State Customs Service held the first meeting of their Coordination Team to present the draft of the new Customs Code of Ukraine to European Commission experts. This milestone opens the way for EU assessment and the launch of consultations with the business community.
Developed on the basis of EU customs legislation, the draft Code is a cornerstone of Ukraine’s European integration path. According to Deputy Minister of Finance for European Integration Yurii Dragančuk: “The European Union itself started with a Customs Union. Despite Russia’s ongoing attacks, Ukraine remains committed to joining the EU. Our customs service plays a crucial role as the Eastern border of Europe – both economically and in terms of security.”
The Cabinet of Ministers approved the draft on August 26. The work has been carried out for over a year in close cooperation with EU technical assistance experts.
Deputy Head of the State Customs Service Vladyslav Suvorov emphasized that, alongside EU evaluation, Ukraine is preparing its IT infrastructure: “By the time the Code is ready for adoption in Parliament, we must already have national IT solutions in place that can interact with EU systems.”
What does this mean for businesses?
Unified and transparent rules. The new Code will align Ukraine with EU standards, making the market more predictable for global partners. Trade facilitation. Simplified customs procedures and harmonized regulations will reduce administrative pressure on exporters and importers. Access to EU markets. Compliance with EU practices will help Ukrainian companies secure new trade agreements and partnerships. EU membership readiness. Customs harmonization is a fundamental precondition for successful EU accession talks.
Importantly, many provisions of the new Code will not drastically differ from the current legislation, since EU-aligned norms have already been integrated. This will smooth the transition for businesses, many of whom have been consulted during the drafting process.
The Ministry of Finance also announced the creation of a working group of up to 15 representatives from business associations and NGOs. This group will refine the draft following the European Commission’s review.
Full details and draft text of the new Customs Code of Ukraine: https://is.gd/8vCfTd
