EC Proposes Extending Import Duty Suspension on Ukraine, Moldova

The European Commission is proposing to extend the suspension of import duties and quotas on Ukrainian goods for another year (see 2305250017). The measures were originally enacted in June 2022 to aid Ukraine following Russia's invasion.

The proposal to renew the duty suspension contains a "reinforced safeguard mechanism" that would ensure that "quick remedial action can be taken in case of significant disruptions to the EU market" or the market of one or more EU member states, the commission said Jan. 31. The measures also include an "emergency brake" for imports of "sensitive products," including poultry, eggs and sugar, which would stabilize "imports at the average import volumes in 2022 and 2023." If the goods exceed those levels, tariffs would be reimposed.

The commission also suggested renewing the suspension of all duties on goods from Moldova for another year. These proposals will next be considered by the European Parliament and the European Council.