The relevant International Trade Committee of the European Parliament has approved the extension of trade liberalization for Ukraine and Moldova until June 5, 2025

The corresponding decision was made at the Committee meeting, which took place on Thursday in Brussels, the press service of the European Parliament reports.

MEPs approved on Thursday, by 26 votes, with 10 against and one abstention.

In particular, the decision proposed to extend the temporary suspension of import duties and quotas on the export of Ukrainian agricultural products to the EU for another year, from June 6, 2024 to June 5, 2025, in support of Ukraine amid Russia's ongoing aggressive war against this country.

"The legislation empowers the Commission to take swift action and impose any necessary measures should there be significant disruptions to the EU market, or to the markets of one or more EU countries due to Ukrainian imports. It also provides for an emergency brake for particularly sensitive agricultural products, namely poultry, eggs, and sugar, meaning that if imports of these products surpass the average 2022 and 2023 volumes, tariffs would be re-imposed. The liberalising measures are conditional on Ukraine's respect for democratic principles, human rights, the rule of law, and its sustained efforts to fight corruption and organised crime," the press release notes.

Sandra Kalniete (EPP, Lithuania), rapporteur for the Ukraine file said: "As we have just passed the second anniversary of the onset of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, the proposal is a strong signal of the EU's steadfast support for Ukraine and its people. The extension of the EU's trade measures will ensure Ukraine can continue to export its agricultural products to the EU - a crucial lifeline for the Ukrainian economy. At the same time, the proposal includes solid safeguards ensuring our farmers will not be overwhelmed by a sudden surge of imports. The Commission will be able to re-introduce tariffs or take any other necessary measures if it finds imports of specific products lead to market disturbances. It is a good balance between continuing our vital support to the Ukraine and the necessary protection of our markets."

Parliament is expected to vote on its first reading in plenary next week. Next, the Council will formally approve the regulation and it will enter into force upon publication in the Official Journal of the EU.