OTTAWA – The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) welcomed the introduction in Canada’s House of Commons of legislation to implement the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA) and congratulated all those whose hard work made this historic agreement possible.
The legislation to implement CUFTA was introduced in the House of Commons by Minister of International Trade Chrystia Freeland on November 3.
Ms. Freeland stated, “We are one step closer to being able to reap the benefits of the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement, which will generate opportunities for Canadians and Ukrainians alike. It will boost our economies, spur innovation and strengthen the middle class and those working hard to join it.”
The government of Canada stated, “When CUFTA enters into force, Canada will immediately eliminate duties on 99.9 percent of imports from Ukraine. Similarly, Ukraine will eliminate tariffs on approximately 86 percent of Canadian exports, with the balance of tariff concessions to be implemented over a period of up to seven years. CUFTA will thus eliminate essentially all tariffs on goods currently traded between Canada and Ukraine.”
UCC National President Paul Grod stated: “The Ukrainian Canadian community warmly welcomes today’s news. This agreement is a win-win for both our countries, and will open up new opportunities in investment and trade. CUFTA will also provide incentive for further economic reforms in Ukraine, and strengthen the deep bonds between the people of Canada and Ukraine.”