Ukraine is making progress in the development of craft alcohol production. On June 29, the Verkhovna Rada passed a law that legalizes the production and sale of craft spirits and distillates. This initiative is aimed at supporting small entrepreneurs engaged in the production of these beverages. Draft Law No. 5762 "On Amendments to the Tax Code and Certain Laws of Ukraine on Simplifying the Conditions for the Production of Distillates by Small Businesses" was adopted in the second reading and in general.

Danylo Hetmantsev, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Finance, Taxation and Customs Policy, noted that the law aims to bring legislation in the sphere of production and circulation of alcoholic beverages and distillates in line with European standards and ease regulation for small entrepreneurs.

The draft law provides for several important changes. First, it will set clear requirements for the material and technical base of small distillers. Secondly, such producers will be able to submit a report on the volume of produced and sold products on a quarterly basis instead of monthly, and fines for failure to submit or incorrect submission of such reports will be reduced. Third, the cost of a license for wholesale trade in alcoholic beverages for small producers of distillates will be reduced. Fourth, the use of all alcoholic distillates made from agricultural products for the production of alcoholic beverages will be allowed. Finally, the outdated provisions on mandatory certification of alcohol, distillates, bioethanol and alcoholic beverages will be eliminated.

It is hoped that this law will promote the development of craft alcohol production and help legalize small businesses engaged in the production and sale of craft alcoholic beverages and distillates. Taras Vysotsky, Deputy Minister of Agrarian Policy, emphasized that this draft law will solve several problems simultaneously, including the harmonization of licensing for the production and sale of alcohol distillates and alcoholic beverages, as well as creating additional opportunities for processing agricultural products.

This step forward in the development of craft alcohol production demonstrates the growing interest of Ukrainian consumers in such beverages. Craft spirits are characterized by high quality, unique flavor and a variety of varieties. They are becoming increasingly popular among people who value authenticity, locality and the unique character of the product.

Ukraine has the potential to become an important player in the craft alcohol market, and new legal regulations will help to develop this industry. Legalization of small entrepreneurs, creation of favorable conditions for their activities, and ensuring the quality and safety of products contribute to the sustainable growth of the country's economy.

All the changes introduced by this law reflect the desire of the Ukrainian authorities to harmonize national legislation with European standards. This will help increase the competitiveness of Ukrainian producers, expand their access to foreign markets and support the country's export potential.

The adoption of the law on the legalization of craft spirits and distillates in Ukraine is a step towards the development of entrepreneurship and the creation of favorable conditions for innovative projects in the alcohol industry. New opportunities for small producers, expanding the range of craft beverages and ensuring high quality products will turn the Ukrainian market into an attractive platform for consumers and investors.