Adapting agriculture to EU plant protection product rules could cause annual losses of $2 bln – Dpty minister
The transition of Ukraine's agricultural sector to European standards for the use of plant protection products (PPPs) will affect about 10 million hectares, or 40% of total sown areas, which could result in annual sector losses of at least $2 billion, Deputy Minister Taras Vysotsky said in an interview with delo.ua.
The deputy minister recalled that the gradual harmonization of legislation with European Union regulations foresee the withdrawal of risky active substances from the market and the introduction of integrated pest management. This will lead to a temporary decline in yields averaging up to 20%: in particular, corn yields are projected to fall by 13%, and sunflower by up to 26%.
Vysotsky emphasized that when discussing the increase in production costs, estimated at EUR 70–150 per hectare, it is important to understand that this is not driven solely by more expensive plant protection products. It is an integrated effect resulting from the transition to more costly or biological alternatives, additional technological operations, and, to a significant extent, the temporary reduction in yields during the transition period.
"Regarding support, this is a principled position. The European Union never introduces environmental requirements without financial instruments for farmers. We are following the same path. During the implementation of legislation, mechanisms are being built in to compensate costs, support small and medium-sized farmers, and mitigate yield losses during the transition phase," the deputy minister said.
He added that the key message of the reform is not rising production costs, but the transition to a competitive agricultural production model that opens full access for Ukrainian producers to the EU single market.
As reported, full adaptation of Ukraine's agricultural legislation to EU standards is to be completed by 2028. During 2026–2027, the main focus will be on implementing regulations on food safety, animal welfare, and the environmental sustainability of the sector.
