Hungary will not ban imports of Ukrainian honey: Position and reaction

Hungary is defending its decision not to re-impose a ban on honey imports from Ukraine, despite demands and protests from local honey producers. According to Reuters, this decision was made because the previous unilateral ban did not have the expected positive impact on the local honey market, but caused damage to companies that exported honey to the European Union.

Hungarian Minister of Agriculture Istvan Nagy emphasized that honey exporters need Ukrainian product, as it is an important component of contract supplies. He also pointed out that most of the EU's honey imports come from China and Ukraine, with Ukrainian honey accounting for 25% of EU imports in January-August 2023.

Although Hungary's decision was not welcomed by local beekeepers, as wholesale prices for honey do not even cover the cost of its production, Minister Nagy emphasized the need to open the market to ensure the interests of Hungarian farmers.

Last year, the Hungarian government imposed a ban on imports of 25 agricultural products from Ukraine, including honey. However, this decision was canceled on February 19 this year due to the unsatisfactory effect on the local market and the interests of exporters. At the same time, Hungary did not ban the transit of honey through its territory.

The European Commission has expressed its criticism of unilateral actions of EU member states in trade, considering them unacceptable. Such situations require the development of collective solutions and the preservation of mutual understanding between the EU member states.