Ukraine has signed a updated free trade agreement with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), which includes Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. This was reported by Prime Minister of Ukraine Denis Shmigal.
According to the Head of Government, the updated document is actually the "restart" of the 2010 agreement. It is adapted to modern realities, taking into account changes in global trade, economic challenges and strategic goals of Ukraine, in particular - its European integration. New conditions open up for Ukrainian businesses more access to developed markets with high purchasing power.
"This is an important step for strengthening economic ties with key partners. The agreement takes into account the interests of small and medium -sized businesses, and contains provisions on sustainable development, e -commerce, intellectual property and technical cooperation," Shmigal said.
In addition, the updated agreement includes modern rules for determining the origin of goods, which allows businesses to integrate more deeply into European supply chains. Sections related to customs procedures, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, public procurement were also updated.
Separately, Ukraine has concluded new agreements with Norway, Iceland and Switzerland in the field of agricultural trade. These documents are aimed at reducing trade barriers and expanding access to Ukrainian agricultural goods to the markets of these countries.
The governments of the EFA countries have expressed support for updated trade cooperation, noting the importance of Ukraine's integration into the European economic system.
