Ukrainian Minister Explores Danish Agro-Food Model for National Transformation

Image: Minagro

Ukraine's Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food, Vitaliy Koval, recently concluded a significant visit to Food Nation Denmark, a leading platform showcasing the strengths and innovations of the Danish agro-food sector to the global market. Accompanied by Ukraine's Ambassador to Denmark, Andriy Yanevskyi, Minister Koval engaged with the platform to gain insights into Denmark's successful approach to agricultural development and export.

Minister Koval emphasized the strategic importance of Food Nation Denmark, highlighting that it represents more than just a brand. He described it as a long-term state strategy focused on promoting Danish agricultural products as high-quality, environmentally friendly, and innovative.

"Denmark has successfully united its business sector, government bodies, scientific community, and farmers around a shared vision: to export comprehensive solutions, not merely raw products," Minister Koval noted. "They are selling not just cheese or meat, but the very blueprint for efficient, ecological, and transparent production. Food Nation serves as an instrument of trust, where the label 'Made in Denmark' inherently signifies reliability and quality without the need for extensive explanation."

Inspired by the Danish model, Minister Koval stressed the importance of adapting this experience to the Ukrainian context. He reiterated the Ministry of Agrarian Policy's ambition to transform Ukraine from a primarily agrarian nation into a modern agro-industrial powerhouse. This transformation hinges on fostering advancements in deep processing, embracing innovation, and ensuring the sustainable development of rural areas.

During the discussions at Food Nation Denmark, Minister Koval also addressed potential challenges facing Ukrainian farmers, particularly concerning the possible discontinuation of autonomous trade preferences. He affirmed the government's commitment to proactive engagement at all levels – including government, civil society, academia, and business – to establish a robust foundation for Ukraine's future agricultural exports.

Minister Koval expressed optimism about Ukraine's potential to emerge as a new-generation agricultural brand. He believes that the presidential initiative, "Made in Ukraine," holds significant promise for gaining popularity both domestically and internationally.

Concluding his visit, Minister Koval thanked his Danish counterparts at Food Nation for their open dialogue, stating, "We are dedicated to ensuring that Ukraine resonates globally as a contemporary agricultural state, and that 'Made in Ukraine' becomes synonymous with quality, resilience, and innovation."