Ukraine introduces 31.7% import duty for Russian cars

Ukraine introduced a 31.7-per cent import duty for new Russian cars from July 30 until December 8, 2002, the Ukrainian financial server reported. This duty will concern Russian cars with 1-1.5 engines. According to a decision of a joint commission for Economy Ministry's foreign trade and European integration of July 12, 2002, a special antidumping investigation of Russia's car imports will be underway over this period of time.

The Economy Ministry of Ukraine is supposed to suggest to the Russian Economic Development and Trade Ministry to hold consultations concerning the elaboration on an agreement on the limitation of Russia's new car exports to Ukraine. If this agreement is prepared, the Economy Ministry will have to submit proposals concerning the interruption of anti-dumping sanctions to the interdepartmental commission.

Customs rates have been increase as a result of a special investigation of the interdepartmental commission on a request of the association of Ukrainian car manufacturers Ukravtoprom and in accordance with the law 'On Special Measures Concerning the Imports to Ukraine.' According to information of Ukravtoprom, Russia's car exports to Ukraine are significant and gained 52% in 2000 compared to 1998.