Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine has shattered normal logistical links, and Russian warships are blocking our maritime trade routes. Therefore, nowadays the only way of Ukrainian exports and imports is through the land borders in the west. It is extremely important that their crossing is fast and accessible to many carriers. EU countries are constantly making concessions to reduce unnecessary procedures at the border and simplify the requirements for Ukrainian carriers.

Thus, at the request of the Ukrainian AgriCouncil, the competent authorities of the Republic of Lithuania on the list of requirements for Ukrainian trucks operating in this country received the answer that nowadays Lithuania does not require Ukrainian trucks to comply with EURO environmental requirements. In addition, until the end of this year, Lithuania will not require permits for the carriage of goods from Ukraine.

The access of haulage vehicles to separate EU’s members is regulated by permits issued by the competent authorities of each member. In the Republic of Lithuania, the relevant competent authority is the Lithuanian Transport Safety Administration.

In addition to other requirements, permits may provide for a certain (usually minimum) EURO standard that trucks must meet. For example, Germany allows the transport of goods on its territory for trucks with a minimum standard of EURO 4, Poland is open for trucks with a minimum standard of EURO 5, and so on.

Also, nowadays the EU is developing an interim agreement on road transportation between the European Union and Ukraine. This agreement will provide for exclusion from European standards for trucks from Ukraine. The agreement is planned to be prepared and adopted by July this year.

The UAC thanks the Lithuanian government for the decision to simplify road transportation for Ukrainian business at this difficult time for us.