Imports of Moldovan wine into Ukraine could face significant restrictions
Imports of Moldovan wine into Ukraine could face significant restrictions soon. The Cabinet of Ministers in Kyiv has prepared changes to the list of goods subject to special import controls in 2026, according to Ukrainian media. The measures will affect wines, fresh grapes, ethyl alcohol, and spirits.
RBC-Ukraine reports that Kyiv has drafted a resolution amending the Cabinet of Ministers’ decision of 31 December 2025, which would subject imports of Moldovan wine products to licensing until discriminatory actions against Ukraine cease.
The explanatory note attached to the document, obtained by the press, cites the reason for the potential ban on all Moldovan wine imports as Moldova’s National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) order from 26 January. This refers to ANSA’s decision to block imports of Ukrainian chicken after traces of the antibiotic metronidazole were found in poultry feed destined for Moldova.
This month, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Taras Kachka sent an official letter to Moldova’s Minister of Agriculture, Ludmila Catlabuga, notifying her of the government’s intent to block all Moldovan wine imports as a reciprocal measure in response to the ban on Ukrainian poultry and related products.
The explanatory note to the 31 December 2025 draft resolution states that the measure aims to respond to discriminatory or unfriendly actions by Moldova.
Previously, the Minister of Agriculture noted on Moldova 1 that Moldovan wine exports to Ukraine could be affected after Moldova temporarily suspended Ukrainian poultry imports. A full ban could result in losses of about $35 million, but bilateral negotiations continue, with consumer protection remaining a priority for authorities.
