UK Unveils Comprehensive Trade Measures in Support of Ukraine Amid Conflict

The United Kingdom has unveiled a sweeping set of trade measures aimed at bolstering support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. This includes a significant move to eliminate tariffs on all goods covered by the existing UK-Ukraine trade agreement and implementing fresh sanctions targeting the Putin government. Under the new trade provisions, the UK will waive tariffs on imported goods from Ukraine, reducing them to zero, while removing all quotas outlined in the free trade agreement. Prime Minister Boris Johnson had previously pledged during his visit to Kyiv to implement these tariff cuts to provide crucial economic support to Ukraine in this critical period. International Trade Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan held discussions with Ukrainian Ambassador Vadym Prystaiko in London to reaffirm the UK's unwavering support for Ukraine and outline the newly introduced measures. Responding to a direct request from President Zelenskyy’s administration to ease tariffs and back the Ukrainian economy, the UK’s decision to eliminate tariffs on essential Ukrainian exports like barley, honey, tinned tomatoes, and poultry aims to offer timely assistance to Ukrainian businesses and producers during this challenging phase. Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan emphasized the UK's steadfast commitment to aid Ukraine in its battle against what's seen as Putin’s aggressive invasion, aiming to secure the long-term stability and prosperity of the nation. Moreover, the UK has announced an export ban on specific products and technology that could be employed by Russia to suppress the people of Ukraine, including interception and monitoring equipment. This measure seeks to close any potential loopholes that might allow Russia to procure these goods from the UK. In addition to these measures, the UK has amplified its current tariff sanctions on Russia, extending import bans and imposing increased tariffs, notably on items such as silver, wood products, diamonds, and rubber. The UK has been at the forefront of the international trade sanctions effort, already implementing measures like banning specific imports of iron and steel products, halting the export of quantum technologies and luxury goods, and ceasing new UK Export Finance (UKEF) support for Russia and Belarus. These actions reflect the UK’s determined stance in supporting Ukraine while condemning Russia's aggressive moves in the region.