Ukraine and EU sign steel trade agreement for 2005-2006

The Ukrainian government and the European Union signed an agreement on trade in some steel products for 2005-2006 in Brussels today, the Ukrainian industrial policy ministry has reported.

      For the remaining year 2005, the quota for Ukrainian flat rolled and profile steel exports has been increased to 0.98m tons, and for 2006 it stands at more than 1m, the export duty for Ukrainian iron and steel scrap being EUR30 per ton. Should the export duty for iron and steel scrap be lowered, the quota would be raised respectively. In addition, should the duty be altogether abolished, the quota has to be raised by 43 percent. Ukraine has promised not to impose restrictions on iron and steel scrap exports.

      The parties agreed to liberalize trade in steel products as soon as Ukraine joins the WTO.