The European Commission is preparing to significantly reduce sugar imports from Ukraine following complaints from EU producers that large shipments have caused a drop in prices, Reuters reports, citing three sources.
EU Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen indicated this intention during a meeting with French farmers’ unions and industry representatives at the Paris Agricultural Show in late February. While he did not specify the extent of the reduction, sources quoted him saying imports would be “significantly lower” than current levels.
The sources also mentioned that the EU is considering reviewing other Ukrainian agricultural imports, such as grain, though no further details were provided.
When asked for comment, the European Commission acknowledged concerns from farmers and EU member states regarding certain agricultural imports.
The EU had granted Ukraine free access to its agricultural markets in 2022 to support the country after Russia’s invasion. However, growing protests from European farmers have pushed the bloc to reconsider its approach.
