Amid reports of possible restrictions on the export of oilseeds, Ukrainian agricultural companies have expressed deep concern. They are talking about plans to introduce duties or quotas on the export of soybean and rapeseed from Ukraine to the European Union, which could significantly affect one of the key export industries of the state.

As the European Business Association (EBA) notes, agricultural exports remain critically important for the Ukrainian economy: they contribute to filling the budget, provide foreign exchange earnings and create thousands of jobs. Any administrative intervention in agricultural policy can undermine confidence in the market and question the predictability of the economic environment.

The EBA warns that initiatives to restrict exports are contrary to the long-term interests of Ukraine. Soybean and rapeseed are highly profitable crops that provide a stable income for farmers, especially in difficult war conditions. The introduction of duties or quotas will lead to a decrease in purchase prices, loss of profitability, and, consequently, the refusal of small and medium-sized farmers to grow them.

In 2023–2024, exports of soybeans and rapeseed to the EU countries accounted for a significant part of Ukraine's foreign exchange earnings. The EBA emphasizes that trade restrictions will complicate the country's balance of payments and may create additional risks to macroeconomic stability. In addition, this will hit Ukraine's image as a reliable supplier of agricultural products.

The association also recalls the negative experience of 2017–2020, when indirect restrictions on exports were in effect - the abolition of VAT refunds for soybeans and rapeseed. As a result, these measures led to a decrease in domestic purchase prices and a reduction in sown areas. Growing oilseeds became less attractive, which weakened both processing and production.

Instead of administratively restricting exports, the EBA believes that the state should focus on creating transparent and stable conditions for agrarian business, which will allow attracting investments, developing processing and supporting Ukraine's export potential. "Any intervention in the market is a step backwards," the business community concludes.