EU Council Approves New Trade Agreement with Ukraine, Replacing “Trade Visa-Free” Regime

The EU Council has officially approved a new trade agreement with Ukraine, replacing the “trade visa-free” agreement and laying a long-term, predictable foundation for mutually beneficial trade.
The Gaze reports on it, referring to European Pravda.
“Today's decision confirms the EU's unwavering and multifaceted support for Ukraine after three years of unprovoked and unjustified military aggression by Russia,” said Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Denmark, which holds the EU Council presidency.
The decision is a continuation of the review of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) between Ukraine and the EU, which was reached on June 30, 2025.
The Agreement provides for the elimination of most customs duties, thus increasing trade flows, strengthening economic stability, and enhancing Ukraine's integration into the EU internal market.
At the same time, market access will be gradually aligned with European standards on food safety, veterinary drugs, pesticides, and animal welfare.
Particular attention is paid to protecting sensitive sectors: sugar, poultry meat, eggs, wheat, corn, and honey remain restricted, while less sensitive goods, such as milk and dairy products, will be fully liberalized.
The Agreement also provides for robust safeguard mechanisms for both parties in the event of market disruption and will be an important step towards Ukraine's long-term economic integration with the EU.
“Both the EU and Ukraine will benefit from the abolition of customs duties, which will lead to sustainable economic stability, strong trade relations, and further integration of Ukraine with the EU,” added Løkke Rasmussen.
As The Gaze informed earlier, on October 8, EU ambassadors have approved a new version of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) Agreement with Ukraine, replacing the visa-free travel agreement.
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