Exporting Goods from Ukraine: How to Do It Right

Engaging in international trade opens up opportunities for Ukrainian manufacturers and suppliers — from increasing sales and building partnerships to boosting profits.

However, exporting goods from Ukraine requires thorough preparation, as well as legal and financial support. To minimise risks, it’s important to understand the key stages, requirements, and specifics of foreign economic activity (FEA).

What Goods Can Be Exported from Ukraine?

Permitted exports from Ukraine cover a wide range of categories. Small and medium-sized businesses often sell through online platforms.

Examples include:

A separate share of exports is made up of large product groups:

All exports are regulated by the State Customs Service of Ukraine and the Law of Ukraine “On Foreign Economic Activity.”

First Step: Business Registration

A company planning to export must first register officially as a subject of foreign economic activity.

The next step is accreditation with customs. To gain the right to export legally, an application and a full set of documents must be submitted.

Opening a Foreign Currency Account

This account is required to receive payments from international buyers, usually in USD or EUR. Company registration documents and a resolution on account opening are needed.

Once the account is active, the company can accept payments and carry out international transfers.

Market Research and Competitor Analysis

Before exporting, conduct a detailed study of target markets and competitors.

Market analysis should include:

• Using statistical data,
• Reviewing information from Ukrainian trade missions,
• Studying reports from industry associations,
• Assessing international trade flows.

Understanding consumer demand supports successful sales. Competitor analysis helps you stay informed about pricing, product range, marketing tools, and advantages. This enables you to highlight your strengths and choose the best promotion channels.

International trade flows can also be studied using online databases such as UN Comtrade and ITC Trade Map.

Preparing a Foreign Trade Contract

A well-drafted contract secures both sides and must include:

• Product description — specifications, quantity, technical details.
• Delivery and payments — with Incoterms (FOB, CIF, EXW) to define transport, insurance, and payment responsibilities.
• Penalties and guarantees — for breaches of export terms.
• Currency operations — settlement rules and international transfers.

A clear, high-quality contract is the foundation of safe and effective export.

Customs Documents Required

To process exports, the following must be prepared:

• Customs declaration — records and authorises export.
• Invoice — includes price, delivery terms, and party details.
• Packing list — describes weight, volume, and packaging.
• Transport documents — CMR (road), Bill of Lading (sea), Air Waybill (air).
• Certificates of origin and quality — confirm compliance with destination country’s standards.
• Licences and permits — for goods subject to licensing.

Missing even one document may result in delays or rejection of transit.

Importing Country Requirements

Exported goods must comply with local regulations, such as:

• Certification — CE marking may be mandatory for EU markets.
• Phytosanitary certificates — for agricultural and food exports.
• Storage conditions — e.g. specific temperature requirements during transport.

Compliance with these rules is not a formality — it’s essential for building trust and ensuring smooth sales abroad.

Organising Logistics

Efficient transport solutions guarantee timely and safe delivery:

• Choosing a logistics partner — consider experience and capacity for international deliveries.
• Transport type — select according to goods (e.g. air freight for perishable items).
• Cargo insurance — minimises financial risks.
• Quality control — maintain conditions for goods needing special handling.

Well-organised logistics are key to reliable and secure delivery.

Currency Control and Payments

Proper handling of currency operations helps avoid risks:

• Meeting deadlines for revenue transfer under Ukrainian law,
• Reducing risks with forward contracts or currency insurance.

Currency control ensures financial stability and predictable business operations.

Tips for Successful Export

To build lasting ties with foreign customers:

• Monitor markets regularly to adapt to changes,
• Use online platforms like Alibaba to expand your reach,
• Invest in marketing and promotion to gain consumer trust abroad.

Partnering with experienced specialists will increase your chances of success.

Online Tools and Services

“Integrating ECA services into the Diia.Business portal is part of our strategy to simplify, digitalise and scale export support tools. Demand for ECA products remains high, so we will continue to make them more accessible and business-oriented,” says Ruslan Hashev, Chairman of ECA.

The Diia.Business portal now integrates services of the Export Credit Agency (ECA), offering entrepreneurs financial guarantees and insurance online, avoiding bureaucracy.

Key services include:

• Financing for foreign trade contracts — the state provides banks with guarantees for loans issued to exporters.
• Contract insurance — protection from losses if foreign partners fail to meet obligations.
• Guarantee & counter-guarantee insurance — lowers risks for banks issuing guarantees.
• Investment loan insurance — covers war and political risks, critical in unstable conditions.
• Direct investment insurance — secures capital, even during full-scale war.

These tools are available on one platform, speeding up access to finance and risk protection.

Common Export Mistakes

Beginners often face difficulties such as:

• Documentation — a complex process requiring precise knowledge.
• Financial matters, taxes and reporting — payments, currency control, and timely filings can be challenging.
• Marketing and promotion — building trust abroad requires specific strategies.

Export rules and other key information can be found on official resources such as the website of the State Tax Service of Ukraine.

How We Support Businesses in Export

Ekol Logistics goes beyond standard logistics, becoming a strategic partner for building competitiveness in global markets.

We handle complex tasks so you can focus on growth. By combining deep expertise, advanced digital tools, and a personalised approach, we transform logistics at every stage of export.

Conclusion

Selling abroad is a promising growth path for Ukrainian companies. But it requires a strong grasp of every stage — and knowing which documents are needed.

A trusted logistics provider like Ekol Logistics offers tailored, end-to-end solutions that guarantee transparency, speed, and sustainable growth on the global stage.

FAQ

How to correctly complete an export customs declaration?

The document must show:

• product specifications,
• value,
• destination,
• transport details,
• planned route.

It undergoes checks by relevant authorities, including radiological control if needed. If not required, marks are made automatically.

The completed declaration is submitted electronically via the Export Control System (ECS).

Which countries import the most Ukrainian goods?

Top five importers:

1. Poland
2. Germany
3. Spain
4. Netherlands
5. Turkey

Is VAT payable on exports?

Exports of goods and services are exempt from VAT. To apply the 0% rate, all requirements and procedures must be followed.

About author

Volodymyr Kotsiuba

Chief customs clearance officer

Responsible for organizing and overseeing customs clearance of cargo, ensuring compliance with customs legislation, and optimizing customs procedures for the company's clients.

Published: 31 August 2025

For businesses Logistics transportation

volodymyr.kotsiuba@ekol.com.ua

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