UKRAINE REFORMS STATE CUSTOMS SERVICE
On 17 October, President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a landmark law aimed at reforming Ukraine's State Customs Service. The new law, which will take effect on 1 November, comes after sustained pressure from Western partners and Ukrainian business associations, marking a crucial step towards the country’s ambitions of EU accession.
The legislation introduces several key reforms. Notably, the head of the Customs Service will now be selected by an independent committee, half of which will comprise external experts, ensuring greater accountability. The State Customs Service will also gain greater independence from the Foreign Ministry, a move aimed at reducing external influence.
Ukraine’s Customs reform is not only designed to improve governance but also to generate additional revenue for the state. It also represents another vital step in Ukraine’s journey towards greater transparency and alignment with European standards, as the country continues its push for EU integration.
Source: Kyiv Independent