A rapid transition to EU standards could destroy small and medium-sized agribusinesses, says Denys Marchuk.

Deputy Head of the All-Ukrainian Agrarian Council Denis Marchuk spoke at the third annual forum "Ukrainian Export: Through Thorns to the EU," where the prospects of Ukraine's entry into the European market were discussed.

"Agricultural products make up 60% of Ukraine's total exports. The European market is very interesting for us – it represents 500 million affluent consumers, whose shopping baskets contain a significant share of the very products that Ukrainian agrarians produce. We have already proven that even in times of war, we are capable of producing quality products and fulfilling our commitments," emphasized Marchuk.

At the same time, he noted that concerns exist not only from European farmers but also among Ukrainian producers. In particular, EU accession means stricter requirements for products. And the hasty implementation of all norms may lead to the closure of a significant part of small and medium-sized agribusinesses.

According to Marchuk, the ban on over 100 active substances in plant protection products, in accordance with EU requirements, alone could reduce production by 30%.