Main points
- Ukraine plans to introduce licensing for the import of grapes, wine and alcohol from the Republic of Moldova.
- This decision is a response to restrictions on poultry imports from Ukraine, imposed by Moldova for incorrect reasons.
Ukraine will restrict imports of goods from Moldova / Collage by Channel 24, Getty Images
The Cabinet of Ministers is currently preparing a new draft resolution. It envisages the introduction of a licensing regime for the import of grapes, wine, and alcohol.
What is happening in relations between Ukraine and Moldova?
The regime applies to the Republic of Moldova, as reported by the Ministry of Economy.
Thus, Ukraine wants to:
- to take measures in response to the country's discriminatory actions;
- to protect the economic interests of Ukraine in accordance with the norms of international trade law.
The basis for such changes was the decision of the National Food Safety Agency of the Republic of Moldova (ANSA) dated January 26, 2026 No. 48. It concerns the temporary suspension of the import of poultry meat, offal and products containing poultry meat from Ukraine. This was reported in particular by the association “Union of Poultry Farmers of Ukraine”.
And the notification to the WTO provided incorrect information regarding the reasons for such a decision,
– the Ministry of Economy emphasized.
It is emphasized that this creates risks of spreading unjustified restrictions on Ukrainian agri-food products by other countries.
Important! Ukraine stated that immediately after receiving the signal, state control and investigation were initiated. According to the results of the initial inspection, the presence of metronidazole was confirmed in only one feed sample. That is, we are talking about a non-systemic nature of the incident. And no discrepancies were recorded in poultry meat.
Taras Vysotsky
Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture
Ukraine is attentive to any signals regarding food safety and follows the principle of zero tolerance for prohibited substances. Our products are systematically exported to markets with the highest control standards, in particular to the EU and the UK. This is a key indicator of a real risk assessment.
Taras Vysotsky explained that the restrictions imposed by Moldova are disproportionate and apply to products for which no violations have been recorded. If such decisions are not reviewed on the basis of evidence-based results and scientifically based risk assessment, Ukraine will apply tools to protect its economic interests.
Please note! The introduction of a licensing regime for the import of Moldovan wine and spirit products is considered a proportionate and legal response tool.
What else is known about the situation with Moldova?
- In February, Ukraine and Moldova discussed strengthening inspection control over the supply of Ukrainian chicken. The countries wanted to lift import restrictions in this way.
- In particular, in 2025, chicken exports from Ukraine to Moldova amounted to 18,400 tons worth 32,700 US dollars. Therefore, the suspension of imports requires an urgent resolution.