Ukraine has told authorities it is prepared to lodge a formal complaint with the World Trade Organization if Poland moves to impose a unilateral ban on Ukrainian grain imports. This stance was conveyed in discussions referencing statements from Ukraine’s deputy economy minister.
Officials say Ukraine is ready to pursue the matter within the WTO framework should Poland take independent action that restricts grain shipments. The approach signals Kyiv’s willingness to engage in a potentially lengthy dispute process, should it be necessary to defend its grain exports on the international stage.
According to those briefed, Kyiv does not view the Polish market as essential for Ukraine’s grain sector. Nonetheless, the removal of trade limits is seen as vital to Ukraine’s economic interests and its broader agricultural policy. The emphasis rests on maintaining market access for Ukrainian farmers and ensuring predictable trade conditions across Europe.
In parallel, Ukrainian leadership has highlighted strategic discussions at regional gatherings. At a recent summit involving Three Seas Initiative participants, the question of agricultural product restrictions surfaced as a top economic issue. There was a clear call for a careful, rules-based response should limitations on Ukrainian agricultural goods be extended, with options that could involve European institutions if necessary.
Ahead of these developments, Polish agricultural authorities signaled a broader regional stance. Officials from neighboring countries indicated they planned to urge European Union leadership to consider a ban on Ukrainian grain imports, with a target date set for the end of the current year. The move reflects coordinated regional dynamics as governments weigh the impact of imports on domestic markets and farm livelihoods.
Previously, Ukraine pressed for measures to sustain an alternative grain corridor that would operate independently of Russian involvement. The aim was to preserve supply routes that could help stabilize Ukrainian farmers’ access to European markets even amid broader geopolitical tensions. Officials stressed the importance of ensuring reliable logistics for grain shipments, including routes that could bypass contested corridors while maintaining EU-compatible practices and safety standards.