The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine has registered a draft law that provides for the introduction of ‘lending holidays’ for farmers whose property remained in the occupied territories. The initiative aims to help agricultural enterprises maintain stability and create opportunities for resumption of operations after the end of hostilities. According to the draft law, farmers will be able to suspend loan payments during the war, avoiding additional financial pressure.

According to Denys Marchuk, Deputy Chairman of the Ukrainian Agri Council (UAC), this is an important step to support the agricultural sector in wartime.

“Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, farmers who lost their businesses have been forced to pay back their loans, even though their property has remained under occupation, often destroyed or nationalized. They found themselves in a situation where they were unable to conduct business, but were forced to pay banks. This injustice only increases the difficulties in doing business,” Denys Marchuk emphasized.

The draft law was signed by 55 people’s deputies from different factions, which is an important step towards real support for farmers during the war period.

“This is a compromise, because we understand that banks will not agree to write off loans in full, but suspending payments will allow farmers to return to the market. After the liberation, farmers are ready to resume operations of their enterprises, earn money and fulfill their debt obligations. They are not abandoning their responsibilities, they just need time to return to normal operations,” emphasized the UAC Chairman.

Farmers face a constant threat from Russia, which is trying to make Ukrainian land unfit for life and business.

“The enemy is deliberately destroying infrastructure and mining fields to make it impossible to grow crops. However, despite all the difficulties, Ukrainian farmers stay in their places. Even those who have moved to the government-controlled areas continue to work to support the country's economy. In our association, the UAC, none of our members have gone abroad, all of them have stayed in Ukraine and are ready to work for the recovery. These people have great experience and a desire to rebuild their businesses after the war. Our task now is together with the authorities to create conditions under which farmers can continue their business. Supporting farmers is not only about economic stability, but also an opportunity for many businesses to get the second chance in the new environment,” summarized Denys Marchuk.