The Verkhovna Rada adopted a draft law on verification of the origin of soybeans according to EU rules

On September 16, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted as a basis Bill No. 15352, which will ensure verification of the origin of certain types of products in accordance with the requirements of EU Regulation 2023/1115 to confirm that their production is not associated with deforestation or forest degradation after December 31, 2020. Such requirements will apply to soybeans, cattle, coffee, cocoa, palm oil, rubber and wood, as well as products made from these raw materials.

For Ukrainian farmers, the main changes will affect the soybean market. Companies that sell or import/export soybeans will have to collect information about its origin, including geolocation data on the location of growing areas.

In addition, the procedure for checking goods will be strengthened. Companies will be required to assess the risks of non-compliance of products with established requirements and take measures to reduce them. Information about such goods must be entered into the State Agrarian Register or the exporter's electronic account.

The new requirements will apply to the import and export of products, as well as their sale on the domestic market of Ukraine.

260 deputies voted for the adoption of the bill in the first reading, and amendments must be made to the document before the second reading, so proposals will be accepted until September 30.