The EU’s neighboring member states are providing essential help to keep Ukrainian agricultural exports moving. This sentiment was voiced by a European Commission spokeswoman for Agriculture, who noted concerns for farmers affected by recent weekend restrictions on imports of grains and other agricultural products from Ukraine, including actions announced by Poland and Hungary.
Unilateral action is not possible
Authorities in the EU and Ukraine have been consulted to understand the reach and legal grounding of these measures. The EU maintains that trade policy falls under its exclusive competence, meaning decisions must be made at the EU level. Consequently, unilateral steps by a single member state cannot stand as a valid approach in this context.
The spokesperson spoke during a press briefing in Brussels, underscoring the importance of coordinated action among EU partners.
She emphasized the ongoing need to support Ukraine through these challenging times while also recognizing the impact on EU farmers. The frontline countries that assist with Ukraine’s agricultural exports deserve gratitude for their efforts.
Ban on the import of Ukrainian agricultural products
An ordinance restricting the import of Ukrainian agricultural products was signed by the Development and Technology Minister. The measure is expected to take effect by the end of June and covers products such as grains, sugar, and eggs. This follows Poland’s decision to impose a similar ban and Hungary’s temporary halt on Ukrainian grain and other farm goods to shield its domestic market, according to official statements.
The Slovak government also announced a temporary stop on Ukrainian grain imports. The Ministry of Agriculture noted it had explored all available legal avenues to control Ukrainian grain shipments and to manage the so-called solidarity corridors amid ongoing supply considerations.
Additional context has been provided by national ministers who have indicated that the action is designed to address domestic market conditions while maintaining channels for essential transit where appropriate. The overall aim is to balance the support for Ukraine with the protection of local farmers’ interests within the framework of EU rules.
Further discussions continue among EU member states and with Ukraine to clarify the scope of measures, the legal bases, and the practical implications for cross-border trade and regional food security. This is a moment for careful, EU-wide coordination that respects existing trade competencies and seeks transparent, predictable outcomes for all stakeholders involved.
The situation remains dynamic as governments assess the effects on supply chains, market prices, and rural livelihoods. The common objective remains steady: uphold humanitarian and economic support for Ukraine while safeguarding the viability of agricultural sectors across member states.
Source reporting highlights ongoing governmental deliberations, with officials noting that additional measures could be introduced if necessary and that any action would be coordinated at the EU level to maintain consistency and legal clarity across all member states.