Polish Processors Urge Ukraine to Support Local Cheese Production Instead of Restricting Imports

According to him, the most effective strategy for the Ukrainian authorities could be to stimulate domestic production through subsidies, sales support programs, and the promotion of local products, as well as providing preferences to domestic producers within the public procurement system.

Hydzik also warned against using rhetoric about a "market takeover" by foreign suppliers, noting that such statements could lead to informal barriers, including additional inspections and delays in customs procedures.

The statements from the Polish side came amid concerns from Ukrainian producers over the rising imports of cheese, primarily from Poland. According to industry sources, the share of imported products in the Ukrainian market continues to increase, intensifying competition with local processors.

At the same time, Polish processors emphasize that the development of trade relations should be considered in the context of further economic integration of Ukraine with the European Union and prospects for expanding access to the single European market.

The Ukrainian market has already become one of the significant export destinations for Polish dairy products, and further state support measures for the national industry could impact the trade balance between the countries and the competitive situation in the cheese segment.