b"new legislation are to regulate the laws in this domain and align them with European standards. As Ukraine aspires to integrate into the European Union, this is a crucial step for us. Moreover, we are pleased that lawmakers have listened to market participants, result-ing in legislation that, while framework-based, is substantive and includes provisions like timelines, oversight, and risk assessment.The new law also establishes state control in granting GMO use permits, strengthens the risk assessment system related to GMOs, and the consumer rights protection domain has its perkupdated labelling requirements. Furthermore, new enforcement mecha-nisms have been introduced, including fines and procedures for the removal and disposal of illegal GM products.The legislation restricts the testing and research of genetically modified corn in open environments, its official registration, its market introduction, and its import to Ukraine. The only exception is when importing for closed-system scientific study, given there's a valid permit in place. Moreover, the growth of genetically modified sugar beets and rapeseed is limited to a period of five years, barring instances where they're grown for open-system research and tests with the necessary authorization.Looking ahead at Ukraine's prospective EU membership, this law will nullify all GMO endorsements as per Ukrainian standards, except those greenlit by the EU. My interpretation is that once Ukraine joins the EU, the cultivation of GMOs which have the Ukrainian nod but lack EU authorization will be considered illegal.Certainly, we have much work ahead in the development of secondary legislation and open databases, but the direction is set correctly. The GMO field in Ukraine should be transparent and accessible, ensuring safety for both consumers and the environ-ment. The adoption of the GMO regulation law is a clear signal that Ukraine is systematically and consistently moving towards joining the EU.SWE: WE ALL READ IN THE NEWSPAPERS THAT SEVERAL EU COUNTRIES BANNED CEREAL IMPORTS FROM UKRAINE.Siuzana GrygorenkoWHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON THIS BAN?SG: In early October 2023, the European Union lifted its ban on the import of four categories of agricultural products from Ukraine. This decision concerns five neighbouring countries. In this con- SWE: THE SITUATION IN YOUR COUNTRY CANNOT BE EASY, text, Ukraine is to support initiatives that will prevent financialAND YOU ARE LIVING UNDER MARTIAL LAW. CAN YOU GIVE distortions in these states. Part of the legal obligations includesSOME EXAMPLES ON HOW THIS IS COMPLICATING YOUR implementing an export licensing system to prevent sharp priceLIFE.spikes in grain. SG: Apart from the constant danger and chronic stress experi-The response from neighbouring countries varied. Bulgariaenced by all Ukrainians, during the warmer months, farmers can't lifted the ban on the export of Ukrainian grain, Romania agreedconduct fieldwork at night due to the curfew. The Russian invasion to the new obligations set for Ukraine. However, Poland, Hungary,has also disrupted many logistical routes and directions that took and Slovakia are still considering possible solutions. years to develop, especially sea and river routes. Presently, farmers We are disheartened by the excessive politicisation of thesehave to find ways to navigate this situation to save their crops. And events, yet we respect our partners' decisions and continue thewe can't overlook the ongoing mobilisation, which also affects the negotiations. After all, Ukrainian farmers, like all Ukrainians,agricultural sector, leading to potential staff shortages. At times, are going through genuinely tough times, and their resilience isthere's even the heartbreak of burying those who worked alongside admirable. Through our work and taxes, we help our nation standyou. Without a doubt, these are the hardest moments of the war. against Russia. We do this in all areas, even in frontline territories,Additionally, farmers are now preparing for more attacks on infra-in the face of deadly risks, while our nation and the heroic Armedstructure and power outages, leading to high expenses for generators Forces of Ukraine have been holding back the Russian onslaughtand fuel. While everyone is counting on the efficiency of the energy for nearly two years. We stand for support, cooperation, and healthysector and our anti-aircraft units, we must still anticipate blackouts competition. and potentially days without power.EUROPEAN-SEED.COMISEED WORLD EUROPE I 7"