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Poland to keep embargo on Ukrainian grain despite new EU trade deal: report

29.10.2025 13:10
Poland plans to maintain its embargo on Ukrainian grain as a new EU trade agreement takes effect, government sources told RMF FM, citing domestic market disruptions and the risk of “a big problem” if the ban were lifted.
Officials argued Polands farm sector went through a great trauma in 20222023, when Ukrainian grain flooded the market, with effects still felt.
Officials argued Poland’s farm sector “went through a great trauma in 2022–2023,” when Ukrainian grain “flooded” the market, with effects still felt.Photo: Shutterstock/branislavpudar

The agreement, taking effect Wednesday, grants Ukraine broader tariff exemptions than the current temporary regime while adding a safeguard mechanism to allow swift action in case of market disturbances.

Ukraine is also obliged to align with EU farm standards, according to the report.

EU officials say the deal is meant to eliminate the need for unilateral measures by member states.

“From the moment it enters into force, we expect all member states to comply,” European Commission spokeswoman Paula Pinho said on Tuesday.

Market access for the most sensitive products — including sugar, poultry, eggs, wheat, corn and honey — will remain restricted and be phased in gradually. Full liberalization will be considered only for less sensitive items such as milk and dairy products.

Asked how the new rules affect unilateral bans like Poland’s, EU Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen said the agreement would “provide the necessary predictability to our agricultural sector and also eliminate the need for such unilateral actions.”

Polish government interlocutors cited by RMF FM said domestic conditions prevent lifting the grain ban. They argued Poland’s farm sector “went through a great trauma in 2022–2023,” when Ukrainian grain “flooded” the market, with effects still felt.

(jh)

Source: RMF24, Onet