On February 20, Ukrainian President Victor Yushchenko approved the introduction of a temporary increase of 13 percent in the import duty on several products, including pig iron and steel products under 7201 and 7301 HS Codes.
The new law entitled "On Amendments to Certain Laws of Ukraine with the Aim of Improving the State of Ukraine's Balance of Payments in Connection with the Global Financial Crisis" is to be effective for not less than six months from the date of its official publication. However, the measures could be suspended if any World Trade Organization member objects, European Business Association CEO Anna Derevianenko stated.
The Ukraine parliament introduced a temporary additional surcharge of 13 percent on all imported goods, excluding critical goods, in late December 2008. However, President Yuschenko vetoed the relevant law in early 2009.