China will open its market to Ukrainian producers of peas and wild-caught aquatic products. The agreement was signed today between Ukraine’s Ministry of Agrarian Policy and the People's Republic of China, according to the ministry's press service.
The agreement sets veterinary and sanitary requirements for the export of:
- Wild-caught aquatic products (fish and seafood from natural waters);
- Peas.
“China is one of the world’s largest importers of agricultural products. Opening this market to Ukrainian producers will not only increase foreign exchange earnings but also strengthen Ukraine’s position as a reliable supplier of high-quality agri-food products globally,” said Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food Vitalii Koval.
The deal is expected to boost exports. Ukraine’s pea production has been stable: in 2023/2024 it reached 409,000 tons, and is forecast to rise to 476,000 tons in 2024/2025. Main markets include Turkey, India, Italy, Malaysia, the UAE, and now China.
Domestic fish catches in 2024 totaled 11,900 tons — up 6.2% from 2023. Catches outside Ukraine’s jurisdiction nearly doubled to 19,900 tons. The export value of fish products grew by 80.3% year-on-year to $56.3 million.
This new agreement continues Ukraine-China agricultural cooperation that has been expanding since 2019. Ukrainian companies are expected to begin shipments to China soon under the new rules.