Poland rules out compromise with Ukrainian grain embargo after 15 September

Polish minister of economic development and technology Waldemar Buda said he would, "‘without hesitation", sign a decree banning the import of Ukrainian grain after 15 September, when the relevant European commission’s measure expires, if it refuses to extend it.

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In mid-April, the EU’s executive arm and its five members, most notably Poland, agreed to introduce a temporary limitation on the imports of some of Ukraine’s agricultural produce amid concerns that those harm local farmers’ profits.

The ban was extended in June until mid-September with a EUR 100 million financial support package for farmers, and the EU stressed it was not intent on granting another extension.

Speaking on Polish radio on Monday, Mr Buda said Ukrainian grain should not be allowed on the Polish market until Polish farmers sold their harvest.

The minister explained that Poland was considering two options—either extending the restrictions at the EU level, or maintaining the current restrictions at the level of national rules.

"I have the authority to issue a decree that will block imports [of Ukrainian grain] to Poland at the national level. I will not hesitate to use this tool this week, unless the European commission decides otherwise," he stressed.

The resolution will be signed on Friday or Saturday, he added.

"We support the formula of Solidarity Lanes, there is no problem with that. However, we will not allow Ukrainian grain to destabilise the Polish market," Mr Buda concluded.