dw.com
Ukraine initiates dispute proceedings with the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding restrictions on transit and imports of food and railway equipment imposed by the Russian Federation.
During a government meeting on Wednesday the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade of Ukraine was granted relevant authorities to carry out the procedure.
The Economy Ministry, along with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Finance Ministry, and Justice Ministry were tasked with developing and submitting immediately a draft resolution on the protection of economic interests using the WTO mechanisms, according to Deputy Minister for Economic Development and Trade Maksym Nefyodov.
The government also instructed the ministries to ensure involvement of foreign legal advisors who would help develop the country’s legal position in its dispute with Russia within the WTO framework.
Read alsoUkraine complains to WTO over trade discrimination by RussiaAs UNIAN reported earlier, in mid-January Ukraine appealed to the WTO regarding Russia’s trade discriminatory actions, including imposition of embargo and transit restrictions by it.
In late October 2015, Ukraine lodged its first of a series of planned claims with the WTO against Russia, challenging trade restrictions on Ukrainian-produced rail cars and railroad switches. It was reported that due to the restrictions, the Ukrainian exports declined to $51 million over the seven months of 2015. Exports in 2013 were estimated at $1.7 billion.
Read alsoBypassing Russia’s Iron CurtainEarlier, Ukraine addressed the WTO Committee on Technical Barriers to Trade with the request to analyze a ban imposed by Russia on imports of Ukraine-produced confectionery, dairy and juice products, including baby food, as well as beer.