Ukraine shortly plans to accede to the Convention on the Common Transit Procedure, or the so-called “customs visa-free”. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced during a government meeting on May 24.
“This document is the basis for the movement of goods between EU member states. We are already using the appropriate computerized NCTS system and are technically ready to accede to the Convention. Such a connection will significantly speed up the passage of customs and speed up the flow of goods. This is the best quality of customs and new opportunities for Ukrainian business,” said Denys Shmyhal.
In addition, Ukraine is preparing to sign an agreement with the European Union on the liberalization of road freight transport. According to the Prime Minister, the European Commission has already recommended that member states take such a decision.
“Work in this direction is proceeding at an active pace, because in the conditions of blocking our ports, we need to maximize the capabilities of the western border,” the Head of Government added.
Ukraine has intensified the opening of new checkpoints. According to the Prime Minister, two such points will be opened on the western border in the near future.
“The Ministry of Infrastructure, the State Border Guard Service and the customs have a task to create checkpoints in the next six months where there are already highways or where such roads can be built quickly,” Denys Shmyhal underscored.
To connect Ukrainian and European railways, Ukraine will also begin phased construction of a European track. According to the Prime Minister, at first it will be a combination of large hubs and large cities, and then a gradual expansion across the country.
In addition, the Prime Minister noted that Ukraine planned to soon achieve results in joining the EU roaming space and the single area of payments in the European currency SEPA. The first, he said, would allow calls between the EU and Ukraine at no extra cost, as well as allow Ukrainians to use mobile internet at home rates. According to Denys Shmyhal, Ukraine’s accession to the Single Euro Payment Area may take place in the summer and will allow making transfers in euros without any commissions. (Government portal/Business World Magazine)
