Bashlyk explained that the mechanism will function through the state agricultural register to automate the process, accelerate procedures, and reduce paperwork. He stated: “We plan to do this through the state agricultural register to automate the process as much as possible, speed it up, and eliminate the need for a million certificates. We will take the information that the state already has, include it in the list of verified producers, and transfer it to customs.”
According to Bashlyk, the technical elements of the system are nearly finalized, with software already 90% complete. He also addressed concerns regarding duties already paid: “At the same time, I want to say about the question that worries everyone: will the duties already paid by manufacturers be refunded? Amendments to the law on the budget are being prepared, which will allow the refund of payments already paid. Therefore, we are waiting for the relevant decision of the Verkhovna Rada and the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.”
The legal amendments on soybeans and rapeseed came into effect on September 4 following presidential approval. Three days later, reports confirmed that rapeseed exports had been completely halted. Many traders, anticipating the duty, purchased rapeseed directly from producers as early as August. However, on September 4, customs authorities canceled all prior declarations, including those of producers who were initially expected to be exempt from duties.
The uncertainty surrounding procedures has led to reluctance among international buyers. Importers of Ukrainian soybeans are currently refraining from signing new contracts until a clear and consistent export framework is in place.
The situation has already caused financial consequences for agricultural companies. UKRPROMINVEST-AGRO reported losses of $1.3 million due to the introduction of the duties.
In response to these challenges, on September 19, Member of Parliament Yaroslav Zheleznyak introduced a bill in the Verkhovna Rada seeking to abolish the export duty on soybeans and rapeseed entirely. The proposal is now under consideration as stakeholders wait for further clarification from the government.
The upcoming mechanism aims to restore export activity and provide greater stability for producers, traders, and international partners, while the debate over permanent removal of duties continues in Ukraine’s legislative framework.
