Commission Faces Criticism from Germany and Spain Over Import Restrictions on Ukraine

Europe: Several EU countries, including Berlin and Madrid, have criticized the European Commission's decision to extend import restrictions on specific Ukrainian agricultural products. The move, which bars the import of Wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflower seed from Ukraine, has been met with consternation as some governments emphasized the importance of supporting the war-torn country. Currently, these agricultural goods cannot circulate in the five European "frontline" countries, except for transit to other EU or non-EU countries. The extension was a response to unilateral import restrictions implemented by Poland, Hungary, Bulgaria, and Slovakia aimed at safeguarding domestic farmers from cheaper Ukrainian products. The temporary preventive trade measures will remain in effect until September 15.

EU ministers are expressing concern over the restrictions placed on Ukrainian grain exports to the bloc, especially since some EU countries are already dealing with crop failure due to severe drought in recent months. German Agriculture Minister Cem Ozdemir strongly criticized the move, emphasizing that it not only undermines European solidarity with Ukraine but also plays into the hands of Putin. After the Russian President's attempts to divide the international community and inflict economic damage on Ukraine, it's crucial for EU nations to stand united and provide joint support to the war-torn country.

The German Green party minister emphasized the importance of a cohesive approach between the Commission and member states to ensure the EU single market operates smoothly. Ozdemir previously voiced concerns about the Commission's lack of transparency in dealing with agricultural imports from Ukraine, including the two aid packages promised to affected farmers in frontline countries.

Spain's Vice President and Minister of Economy, Nadia Calvino, highlighted the potential of importing cereals from Ukraine to fill the gap caused by drought in Spain. The importance of Ukraine's grain exports in stabilizing food markets globally. She further noted that this is particularly crucial given the current climate conditions that some European countries, including Spain, are currently facing.

The Spanish national farmers association ASAJA has urged the government to defend the interests of the Spanish cereal sector, like other European nations. Despite facing drought and water restrictions, Spain has become the top EU importer of Ukrainian cereal, as its ports reported record numbers for the arrival of cereals and flour in recent months. In response, EU Agriculture Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski has proposed exploring this option, recognizing the demand for grain in member states like Spain and Portugal.

During the monthly gathering of EU-27 agricultural ministers in Brussels last week, it was stated that the grain should be distributed within the European Union to the countries that require it. Additionally, ahead of the EU executive's decision to extend the restrictions, recommendation was made to extend the regional ban, with a suggestion to keep it in place at least until the end of October this year, and possibly until the end of the year. The speaker emphasized their concern that allowing trade near the border would not have any positive impact on Ukraine.