The Future of the EU – Ukraine
Trade Relations

Debate - Wednesday, 26 March, 4 PM CET (90 MIN)
European Parliament, Brussels

The future of trade relations between the EU and Ukraine is at a critical juncture, shaped by evolving economic dynamics, policy adjustments, and the ongoing challenges facing Ukraine. A key aspect of this relationship is the role of Autonomous Trade Measures (ATMs), which provide crucial economic support to Ukraine during a period of instability. As discussions continue, policymakers and stakeholders are evaluating the potential next steps for these measures, considering options such as extending the current framework, introducing enhanced safeguards, or selectively modifying trade agreements under the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA).

A central issue in this debate is finding a balance between supporting Ukraine’s economic recovery and addressing concerns within the EU, particularly in sensitive sectors like agriculture. The impact of trade liberalization on small farmers across the EU, as well as the need for sustainable agricultural cooperation, has prompted calls for flexible and responsive trade policies. Real-time data monitoring and adaptive mechanisms could ensure trade flows remain both beneficial and manageable for all parties involved.

Beyond immediate trade measures, strengthening transport and logistics infrastructure is also a critical factor in facilitating smoother EU-Ukraine trade. Addressing these logistical challenges is essential to ensuring a resilient and efficient supply chain, particularly as both sides navigate the uncertainties of the current geopolitical landscape.

Our Roundtable, organised with the initiative of ZPP - Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers, aims to provide a comprehensive dialogue on creating a resilient and mutually beneficial trade relationship, contributing to regional stability and economic growth for both parties at this crucial moment.

  • WELCOME

    Niels Flemming Hansen MEP
    Committee on Industry, Research and Energy;
    Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety;

    Committee on Public Health

  • STRATEGIC PERSPECTIVES

    Agnieszka Bartol (tbc)

    Head of Permanent Representation of Poland to the EU

    H.E. Vsevolod Chentsov (TBC)

    Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Head of the Mission of Ukraine to the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community

    Sabine Weyand (tbc)

    Director General, DG Trade, European Commission

    Tobias Ketterer (TBC)

    Member of Cabinet of Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission.

  • Presentation of the Study
    "The Future of the EU-Ukraine Trade Relations"

    Seyide Direk

    Policy Analyst with the European Enterprise Alliance

  • REACTIONS & INTERVENTIONS

    Marcin Nowacki

    EESC Member, Employers’ Group; President of the European Enterprise Alliance

    Svitlana Taran (TBC)

    Research Fellow, European Policy Center

    Nazar Bobitski

    Director, EU Office, Ukrainian Agribusiness Club (UCAB)

    TBA

    Federation of Employers Ukraine

  • Concluding Remarks

    Sandra Kalniete MEP (TBC)

    Committee on Foreign Affairs;

    Committee on International Trade;

    Delegation to the EU-Ukraine Parliamentary Association Committee

  • MODERATED BY

    Horst Heitz

    Chair of the Steering Committee of SME Connect