Ukrainian fertilizer imports recovering, problems at customs resolved

MOSCOW. Feb 2 (Interfax) - Ukrainian fertilizer imports are gradually recovering as the customs authorities are returning to the standard inspection system, Ukrainian media reported, citing a statement from the Ukrainian Agribusiness Club (UCAB) that cited market operators.

The association recalled that in the middle of January there were many complaints from market players about the State Customs Service refusing to clear fertilizer that did not undergo lab tests. This led to losses for importers due to down time and late deliveries on contracts.

Starting this week, the origin of fertilizer is being verified by checking paperwork, as specified in international agreements and current Ukrainian legislation, the UCAB said.

"The restoration of the proper system for fertilizer imports through customs became possible thanks to the joint efforts of market representatives and the assistance of the coordinated actions of ministries and customs. Last week, on the initiative of the UCAB, a working meeting was held between representatives of fertilizer market operators and [First Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister] Yulia Sviridenko, with the participation of representatives of the Agrarian Policy Ministry, Economy Ministry, customs and security agencies," the association said.

Analysts forecast earlier that the blocking of fertilizer imports at customs due to the authorities' introducing inspections of product origin and taking samples for testing could disrupt crop planting.

The authorities began inspections of fertilizer shipments at all border customs checkpoints on January 4 to verify their country of origin, reportedly because of the "oversaturation of the markets of all countries around Ukraine with Russian fertilizers."