Doing Business in Ukraine

Country overview

The UK is the fourth largest investor in Ukraine, after Cyprus, Netherlands and Russia (as of 2017). There are over 150 well-established UK companies in Ukraine, with many more brands present. Major UK companies in the market include BP, Shell, GSK, AstraZeneca, BAT, Imperial Tobacco, Mott MacDonald, Crown Agents, Next, and Marks & Spencer.

Ukraine has significant economic potential as a result of its strategic location connecting Europe, Russia and Asian markets, a well-educated labour force, its large domestic market, and access to a variety of resources, including some of Europe’s best agricultural land, significant coal and some oil and gas reserves.

Despite the current difficult political and economic climate, Ukraine continues to offer opportunities in a broad range of sectors. Many of these involve co-operation with Ukrainian companies and authorities, and require Western financial investment. 

Ukraine is a large country, and different regions will have different industry clusters. Good local research is needed and you should consider regional plans and market-entry requirements using both desk research and market visits. Talking to other people in your industry and regularly visiting Ukraine will give you access to the most-current advice and such experience can often lead to new insights and form the basis for further research.

About this guide

This guide aims to provide a route map of the way ahead, together with signposts to other sources of help.

The main objective of this Doing Business in Ukraine Guide is to provide you with basic knowledge about Ukraine; an overview of its economy, business culture, potential opportunities and to identify the main issues associated with initial research, market entry, risk management and cultural and language issues.

We do not pretend to provide all the answers in the guide, but novice exporters in particular will find it a useful starting point. Further assistance is available from the Department for International Trade (DIT) team in Ukraine. Full contact details are available in this guide.

To help your business succeed in Ukraine we have carefully selected a variety of essential service providers as ‘Market Experts’ Click Here

The guide is available in 4 formats:

• this website

• a ‘free’ downloadable 'mobile device-friendly’ app – available from the iTunes App Store and Google Play store

• a full colour hard-copy brochure (to order your copy please Click Here)

• PDF download/e-flipbook (available to download below)

About IOE&IT

An introduction to the Institute of Export & International Trade

Established in 1935, the Institute of Export & International Trade is the professional membership body representing and supporting the interests of everyone involved in importing, exporting and international trade. Offering a unique range of individual and business membership benefits and a world renowned suite of qualifications and training, the Institute is the leading authority in best practice and competence for businesses trading globally.

To view other videos, please visit the IOE&IT YouTube Channel.

For more information visit: www.export.org.uk