Poland introduces new rules to limit import of Ukrainian grain
Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki ordered the introduction of rules limiting the flow of Ukrainian grain to Poland, local outlet Wprost writes.
"We are ready to help, to take this grain and export it to Africa. But we do not agree that this grain will enter our market and destabilize it. I have ordered the introduction of rules that will limit the influence of Ukrainian grain on Poland," Morawiecki said at a press conference on Wednesday.
The Prime Minister also announced that he would send a letter to the President of the European Commission with the demand to make "radical decisions" in this matter.
At the same time, Morawiecki assured that Poland is ready to enter into a conflict with the European Commission regarding the restriction of Ukrainian exports.
"The crisis is so strong that today we are also considering the use of those tools for which we do not have the consent of the European Commission. I say this straight. At best, we will be punished later," the newspaper quotes the Polish PM.
Warsaw wants to launch all possible instruments, including tariffs and quotas, which would help limit the influence of grain from Ukraine on the Polish market.
The Polish government is preparing to introduce in the near future subsidies for farmers in the amount of 100-200 zlotys ($23-46) per ton for the transportation of wheat and corn to Baltic ports.
Last Thursday, Polish farmers started another protest in Szczecin with the demand to settle the issue of grain imports from Ukraine.
On February 17, 2023, the Polish government began developing a subsidy scheme for its farmers due to cheap Ukrainian grain.
On March 6, Ukraine and Poland changed the grain transit rules after protests by Polish farmers.
On March 9, Poland canceled veterinary control for grain in transit from Ukraine.
changed the grain transit rules