UK proposes digital deal to support Ukraine recovery

Ukraine has been offered a helping hand by the UK Government to rebuild its economy in the wake of the Russian invasion.

Talks between the two nations have led to plans to pursue a new digital trade agreement to help Ukrainian businesses trade more effectively with the UK.

International Trade Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan met officials from the Ukrainian government to reiterate the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine.

The digital trade agreement will aim to support Ukrainian businesses by cutting red tape and helping them to trade with the UK more efficiently through technology such as electronic transactions, e-signatures, and e-contracts.

‘Shoulder to shoulder’

It will also make it easier for UK companies to work with Ukrainian businesses and support with their economic recovery. Total trade between the UK and Ukraine was worth £1.9 billion in 2021 and UK exports of digitally delivered services accounted for 73 per cent of all UK services exports to Ukraine in 2020.

Anne-Marie Trevelyan said: “Putin’s brutal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine has had devastating human consequences. The UK stands shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine and will use trade as a force for good to help the country rebuild its modern economy after this barbaric war.

“Our partnership with Ukraine will help them seize the brighter days ahead, and we will continue to do everything in our power to protect Ukrainian jobs, livelihoods and families.”

Vadym Prystaiko, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United Kingdom said: “The United Kingdom has shown unwavering support throughout this illegal invasion and the ties between our governments have never been closer.

UK is global leader

“While we fight fearlessly for the freedom of our nation, many Ukrainians also look ahead to how we will rebuild our country. Strengthening our economic ties through this landmark digital trade agreement will support our IT industry, which is set to become a major driver of economic growth for our businesses and cities.”

The announcement follows a direct request from President Zelenskyy’s government, which has identified supporting the digital economy as one of its areas of focus for the recovery and reconstruction of the country. The UK, as a global leader in digital trade, is well placed to help with that.

It follows the UK’s removal of all tariffs under the existing UK-Ukraine free trade agreement in May, supporting Ukrainian businesses and producers to export goods and rebuild their economy. A new digital trade agreement would further strengthen our trading relationship, providing additional and much-needed economic support for businesses in Ukraine.