The end of the 'trade visa-free regime': what will change for Ukrainian exporters from June 6.

Ukrainian exporters are transitioning to a new trade regime with the EU

From June 6, 2025, Ukrainian exporters are moving to a new trade regime with the European Union. The European Commission has approved transitional measures that will replace the Autonomous Trade Measures (ATMs), known as the 'trade visa-free regime.'

According to the spokesperson for the European Commission, Balazs Ujvari, the new conditions will open access to tariff quotas for Ukrainian entrepreneurs within the framework of the existing deep and comprehensive free trade area between Ukraine and the EU (DCFTA). The transitional measures will come into effect on June 6 and will return Ukrainian exporters to the system of tariff quotas.

Important changes in trade conditions

'Currently, the Commission is working on revising the deep and comprehensive free trade area between Ukraine and the EU (DCFTA) to ensure long-term predictability and stability for European and Ukrainian operators, including in the perspective of Ukraine's accession to the EU,' said Balazs Ujvari.

The transitional measures will remain in effect until negotiations to update the existing free trade agreement are completed. The new edition will include long-term conditions for Ukrainian exporters in the EU, including expanded elements of trade liberalization.

Simplification of quota management

The European Commission has prepared transitional measures in the form of an Implementing Act, which member states voted on May 22 at a meeting of the Committee on Common Organization of Agricultural Markets. This decision aims to prevent a potential 'cliff edge' scenario after the expiration of the ATMs on June 5.

The document opens access to tariff quotas for products originating from Ukraine under the existing DCFTA. The volumes of quotas available until the end of 2025 will be 7/12 of the normal annual volumes, as they will only be opened from June 6 and will operate for seven months of this year.