Ukraine is working to enhance bilateral trade with Japan and notes increased activity since the onset of the full-scale invasion. The country’s current goal is not only to trade with Japan but also to attract Japanese investments to produce Japanese goods in Ukraine. This was highlighted by Ukraine’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, Yuliia Svyrydenko, during a business forum held on December 18 in Osaka, Japan.
The event, organized by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), was attended by representatives from the governments of Ukraine and Japan, the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Federation of Employers of Ukraine, 20 Ukrainian companies, and over 200 private sector representatives from Japan.
“The volume of bilateral trade between our countries is growing. Last year, it increased by nearly 30%, and this year, an additional 6%, reaching $747.2 million. However, there is room for further growth. I am convinced that forums like this can deepen cooperation at all levels—from strengthening trade ties to attracting Japanese investments into Ukraine’s real economy,” noted Svyrydenko.
Additionally, she highlighted that Japan is Ukraine’s second-largest donor to its budget, contributing $4.2 billion this year alone. The country is also implementing over 30 projects through international organizations, including initiatives in agriculture, healthcare, humanitarian demining, and other areas.
“We are immensely grateful to the Government of Japan for their comprehensive support of Ukraine. However, recovery will be most effective when the government and private sector work in synergy. Therefore, I encouraged Japanese businesses to invest in Ukraine's key economic sectors, localize their production, establish offices in Ukraine, and create joint ventures with Ukrainian companies. I also called on the Japanese government to support the restoration of damaged or destroyed industrial facilities in Ukraine,” Svyrydenko added.
