Business news from Ukraine

Business news from Ukraine

Applications for grants for horticulture and greenhouses now being accepted again, with annual budget of $465 mln

The Ministry of Economy, Ecology, and Agriculture of Ukraine will resume accepting applications for grants for the development of horticulture, berry growing, viticulture, and greenhouse farming on February 2, 2026. Documents will be submitted through the Diya portal. The total budget for the program in 2026 is $465 million, according to the ministry’s press service.

“We are resuming one of the important programs to support farmers — grants for orchards and greenhouses. This is not short-term assistance, but an investment in the development of the agricultural sector, the creation of jobs in communities, and the improvement of production sustainability. (…) Our goal is to support producers, stimulate the creation of value-added products, and ensure the sustainable development of rural areas, especially in the context of war and post-war recovery,” emphasized Taras Vysotsky, Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment, and Agriculture.

The Ministry of Economy specified that grants for orchards will be available for planting and developing plantations ranging from 1 to 25 hectares. The maximum amount of support is up to UAH 10 million per recipient, but no more than UAH 400,000 per hectare. Grants for greenhouses are provided for the construction of modular greenhouses with an area of 0.4 to 2.4 hectares. The size of the grant will depend on the area: 0.4-0.6 hectares – up to UAH 2 million, 0.8-1.2 hectares – up to UAH 3.5 million, 1.6-2.4 hectares – up to UAH 7 million.

For projects in frontline and deoccupied territories, the state may cover up to 80% of the project cost. The project must be implemented on land whose ownership or use rights have been confirmed for at least seven years.

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Spanish government has announced its intention to grant legal status to hundreds of thousands of migrants

The Spanish government has announced its intention to grant legal status to hundreds of thousands of migrants who are working or residing in the country without permission, the Associated Press (AP) reported on Tuesday, citing Social Security and Migration Minister Elma Saiz.

She told reporters that immigrants can begin applying for legalization in April, when the relevant decree is expected to come into force. The permit will apply to those who arrived in Spain before December 31, 2025, have stayed in the country for at least five months, and have no criminal record.

According to various estimates, 500,000 to 800,000 migrants could benefit from the Spanish authorities’ plans. Many of them are from Latin America and Africa and are employed in agriculture, tourism, and the service sector.

AP explains that this decree will allow the government to circumvent a similar initiative that has not yet been approved by parliament.

In November 2024, Saiz stated that the Spanish authorities intend to legalize up to 300,000 migrants per year to fill the labor shortage in the country due to the aging population. At that time, she said that the policy of attracting migrants would last three years. She specified that Spain needs 250,000 to 300,000 foreign workers per year who are able to pay taxes in order to maintain the welfare state.

Source: http://relocation.com.ua/the-spanish-government-has-announced-its-intention-to-grant-legal-status-to-hundreds-of-thousands-of-migrants/

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Searching for job abroad: survival guide

Phrases, cover letters, and HR secrets

You’ve found your dream job on LinkedIn. The company is top-notch, the salary is in euros, and the location is somewhere warm (or at least stable). You open your resume file, hover your fingers over the keyboard to write a cover letter… and freeze.

What to write? “Dear Sir/Madam”? Is that too formal? How can I say that I am “stress-resistant” without making HR roll their eyes? And most importantly: is my online English good enough to complete this quest?

Today, we won’t just talk about theory. We’ll break down the process of finding a job abroad into its constituent parts: from a readiness checklist to real letter templates that work in 2026.

Checklist: Are you ready to click “Apply”?

Before we move on to writing magical texts, let’s make sure your foundation is solid. The European and American job markets are ruthless when it comes to details.

Your “Pre-flight” checklist:

  1. ATS-Friendly Resume. Your resume will be read by a robot. If it is made in Photoshop with a lot of graphics, the ATS (Applicant Tracking System) may simply not recognize it. Tip: Simple PDF, clear structure, keywords from the job description.
  2. LinkedIn “All-Star”. HR will definitely Google you. Your photo should be professional, and the “About” section should grab attention from the first sentence.
  3. Digital footprint. Check your social media. If you are applying for a serious position and your Facebook is open and full of controversial posts, this is a red flag.
  4. Cover Letter. Yes, they still read them. Especially if you are changing careers or are a foreigner. This is your chance to explain what didn’t fit into the dry points of your resume.
  5. Language confidence. You may be an engineering genius, but if you can’t explain your ideas, someone else will get the offer. This is where an English tutor for Ukrainians often comes in handy, as they understand the specific mistakes we make when directly translating thoughts from our native language.

Anatomy of the perfect cover letter

Forget about school essays. A cover letter is a commercial proposal where you are the product. The modern style is concise (maximum 3-4 paragraphs) and personalized.

A structure that sells:

1. The Hook

Instead of a boring “I am writing to apply for…,” start with energy or enthusiasm for the company.

Bad: “I want to apply for the manager position.”

Good: “I have been following [Company Name]’s products for three years, and your latest campaign [Name] inspired me…”

2. Your value (The Meat)

There is no need to retell your resume here. Use the formula: Company problem -> Your solution -> Result.

Example: “I know that you are currently expanding into the Asian market. At my previous job, I increased sales in this region by 30% in six months…”

3. Culture Fit

Western companies hire people who are pleasant to work with. Show that you share their values.

4. Call to Action (CTA)

Don’t wait for the tide to turn. Suggest the next step.

Careerist’s vocabulary: Phrases that HR loves

Using the right action verbs makes your speech powerful. Avoid passive voice and words like “did,” “made,” and “worked.”

Instead of “I was responsible for…,” try:

Spearheaded – for leadership stories.

Example: “Spearheaded the migration to a new CRM system.”

Streamlined – when you made a process more efficient.

Example: “Streamlined the internal reporting process, saving 10 hours per week.”

Facilitated – for teamwork.

Revitalized – if you saved a sinking project.

Phrases for “softening” (Soft Skills):

● “I thrive in fast-paced environments…”

● “Eager to leverage my skills in…”

● “Proven track record of…”

Practical cases and sample letters

Let’s look at two scenarios. You can adapt these templates to suit your needs.

Case #1: Experienced specialist (Target: Senior Marketing Manager)

Context: You have 5+ years of experience in Ukraine and want to work for an international company in Berlin or London.

Subject: Application for Marketing Manager – [Your Name] – “Huge fan of [Product Name]”

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name – always try to find it!],

When I saw that [Company Name] is looking for a Marketing Manager to lead the upcoming rebranding, I knew I had to apply. As a long-time user of your app, I’ve always admired your user-centric approach.

In my current role at [Current Company], I spearheaded a similar rebranding initiative that resulted in a 25% increase in user engagement within three months. I specialize in turning complex data into actionable marketing strategies. I noticed you are focusing on Gen Z audiences; my recent project specifically targeted this demographic, achieving a ROI of 150%.

I am eager to leverage my experience in digital strategy to help [Company Name] achieve its Q3 goals. I would love to discuss how my background aligns with your team’s needs.

Best regards, [Your Name] [LinkedIn Profile Link]

Case #2: Switcher or Junior (Target: Customer Support / Junior PM)

Context: You have little relevant experience, but strong motivation and good English.

Subject: Customer Support Specialist Application – [Your Name]

Dear Hiring Team,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Customer Support role at [Company Name]. Having followed your growth in the FinTech sector, I am impressed by your commitment to transparency and customer education.

Although my background is in teaching, I have honed my communication and problem-solving skills daily. I am adept at de-escalating conflicts and explaining complex concepts in simple terms — skills that are directly transferable to supporting your users. In my previous role, I maintained a 98% satisfaction rate based on student feedback.

I am a quick learner, tech-savvy, and ready to bring my positive attitude to your team. Online English lessons with a Ukrainian-speaking teacher helped me polish my business communication, so I am confident in handling international queries effectively.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of an interview.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Reality: What HR responds and what does it mean?

You sent a letter. What next? We decipher the standard responses of Western recruiters.

Situation 1: Silence.

Reality: If 2 weeks have passed, it’s usually a ‘No’, but sometimes the process is delayed. However, don’t put your life on hold while you wait.

Action: Write one polite follow-up letter (reminder letter).

Phrase: “I’m writing to follow up on my application… I remain very interested in the role.”

Situation 2: “We will keep your CV on file.”

Translation: “Not now, but you are suitable. Maybe someday.“

Reality: In 90% of cases, they won’t call. But it’s a polite rejection without burning bridges.

Situation 3: ”We decided to move forward with another candidate who matches our needs more closely.“

Translation: ”Someone else had more experience in the specific niche we need.”

Action: Don’t take it personally. Thank them and ask for feedback (although they may not give it).

Phrase: “Thank you for the update. If possible, I would appreciate any brief feedback to help me improve future applications.”

Situation 4: Invitation to screening.

Reality: Congratulations! But this is only the beginning. The first call is usually made by a recruiter to check your suitability and level of English.

Language barrier: How not to fail an interview

Let’s be honest: you may have the perfect letter template, but if you can’t string two words together in an interview, the magic disappears.

Many Ukrainians make the same mistake: they study grammar but are afraid to speak. Or they use overly complex, “bookish” constructions that sound unnatural in real conversation.

To feel confident, you need practice. And not just “watching TV series,” but simulating interview situations. Online English lessons with a Ukrainian-speaking teacher are ideal for this. Why is that? Because at the preparation stage, it is important that someone can explain the subtleties of the mentality and correct your mistakes in your native language before you go “into battle” with native speakers. This removes the psychological block.

You need to know how to answer “Tell me about yourself” in 2 minutes, not 10. You need to know how small talk about the weather sounds so that it doesn’t look like an interrogation.

Life hacks for preparation:

  1. Record yourself on a voice recorder. The answer to the question “What are your weaknesses?” sounds different in your head than when you say it out loud.
  2. Learn connecting phrases. Furthermore, Moreover, On the other hand. They give you time to think while you speak.
  3. Simulate an interview. Ask a friend, or better yet, a teacher, to conduct a mock interview with you.

Time to take action!

Looking for a job abroad is a job in itself. It requires consistency, patience, and, of course, good communication skills. Don’t be afraid of rejection — it’s part of the sales funnel where you sell your talent. Every “rejected” brings you closer to the coveted “You are hired!”.

Remember: your experience is valuable. Your expertise is needed by the world. The only thing standing between you and the offer is the right words in the right order.

We will help you speak with confidence

Do you feel that English is the glass ceiling that is preventing you from advancing your career? Does the fear of “forgetting a word” during an interview paralyze you? We know how to fix that.

Our school specializes in turning your passive knowledge into an active career tool. We don’t just teach rules — we prepare you for real life. An individual approach, business case studies, interview preparation, and a flexible schedule are exactly what modern people need.

Want to go through an interview without stress? Sign up with us today. We will tailor a program specifically to your goals, whether it’s IT, marketing, or medicine. Let’s make your English your strongest competitive advantage!

Ready for change? Then see you in class!

 

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State-owned enterprise “Forests of Ukraine” received 8.4 bln hryvnia in profits for 2025

According to the results of 2025, the state-owned enterprise “Forests of Ukraine” received UAH 29.9 billion in revenue, UAH 8.4 billion in pre-tax profit, and 23% profitability, said the general director of the state-owned enterprise, Yuriy Bolokhovets, on Facebook.

He specified that “Forests of Ukraine” paid UAH 15.8 billion in taxes in 2025, which is 44% of its revenue and is the highest percentage in the forestry and woodworking industries.

“For the first time since independence, billions in profits from timber sales have not been diluted by shadow schemes and divided between officials and intermediaries, but have been directed entirely to the budget. This is an indisputable fact. Numbers are stubborn things, and they make it possible to evaluate the work of an enterprise on the basis of objective figures rather than subjective judgments,” Bolokhovets wrote.

The CEO expressed confidence that the growth in indicators is largely due to de-shadowing, as the product sales system is now as open as possible. The state-owned enterprise “Forests of Ukraine” publishes information on each exchange transaction: who contracted what volume of timber and at what price. A list of product refusals is also published.

In 2025, the state-owned enterprise transferred 100% of its procurement of harvesting services to Prozorro. However, due to a shortage of personnel, contractors often do not have time to complete the work. Therefore, additional teams are being formed throughout Ukraine and new vacancies for loggers are being opened.

According to his information, “Forests of Ukraine” plans to increase harvesting volumes in 2026. To this end, the procurement of special equipment has already been launched: harvesters, forwarders, skidders, tractors, trailers, and equipment for transporting timber. Currently, the state-owned enterprise “Forests of Ukraine” is working to double its investment plan for 2026 in order to increase the pace of harvesting.

“We are determined to offer the market the largest volume of forest products since the start of the full-scale war. We expect an additional million cubic meters thanks to the acceleration of the approval of forest management materials. We expect another million cubic meters from the deregulation of licensing procedures. Changes to the regulatory framework are being developed, but unfortunately, the decision has not yet been made,” Bolokhovets said.

In 2026, the state-owned enterprise “Forests of Ukraine” also plans to increase investments in forest protection, conservation, and reforestation, focusing on the care of forest crops to ensure a high-quality timber market in the future. The recreation development program will continue.

Bolochovets added that the state-owned enterprise’s plans for 2026 include restarting the implementation of an automated ERP management system and continuing the corporatization process, which involves revaluation of property, inventory, and preparation of transfer deeds. The registration of property rights to land will be completed. The enterprise will also work on incorporating forest users who are unable to fully perform their functions into its structure.

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Vasylkivska Poultry Farm issues shares worth UAH 5.5 mln to expand production

Supervisory Board of PJSC Vasylkivska Poultry Farm (Kyiv region) On January 26, 2026, approved amendments to the decision on private placement of shares, according to which the company plans to raise additional funds for the development of production, the company reported in the information system of the National Securities and Stock Market Commission (NSSMC).

According to the report, the company will conduct an additional issue of 5,500,000 ordinary uncertificated registered shares. The nominal value of one security is UAH 1.00, thus the total amount of the issue is UAH 5.5 million.

The placement of shares will take place in one stage and will last 16 working days: from March 9 to March 30, 2026, inclusive. A pre-determined group of persons, including businessman Serhiy Velykanov, Ledrua Consult LLC, and Pan Capital LLC, will participate in the share buyback.

The decision to increase the capital was made at an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders on November 17, 2025. On the date of this decision, the company’s authorized capital was UAH 2,700,258. After the completion of the issue and registration of amendments to the charter, it is expected to increase to UAH 8,200,258. The funds raised are planned to be used to purchase equipment, feed, and replenish working capital to expand the poultry farm’s production capacity.

The issuer also reported that it owns 100% of the capital of Vetoline LLC (Kyiv). At the time of the start of the issue procedure, the company had no repurchased own shares.

PJSC Poultry Farm Vasylkivska was founded in 2004 and is based in the Vasylkiv district of the Kyiv region. The company specializes in the industrial production of poultry products, breeding of domestic poultry, and the sale of related goods. The company’s production capacity allows it to simultaneously maintain approximately 600-700 thousand birds (laying hens). The poultry farm produces more than 150-180 million eggs annually, which it sells under its own trademark “Dobre Yajce” and the private labels of the Silpo, Fora, and ATB retail chains.

According to the OpenDataBot service, in 2025, PJSC “Vasylkivska Poultry Farm” increased its revenue by 12% to UAH 428.24 million, and its net profit grew by 52.5% to UAH 18.45 million. The company’s assets at the end of the year amounted to UAH 315.6 million, compared to UAH 294.2 million in 2024, while debt obligations decreased by 8% to UAH 142.4 million.

 

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Slovakia, Poland, and number of European countries have agreed on position to strengthen controls on imports of Ukrainian agricultural products

Slovakia, Poland, and a number of European countries have agreed on a position to strengthen controls on imports of Ukrainian agricultural products entering the European market, Slovak Agriculture Minister Richard Takáč told reporters after a meeting of European Union agriculture ministers (Agrifish) in Brussels on Monday.

“I can say that at an informal joint lunch, we discussed strengthening controls on imports from third countries, which is a key issue for the Slovak Republic with regard to Ukraine. Of course, for many other countries, this is partly MERCOSUR, but we also have other agreements with third countries,” he said.

Takács noted that during the informal talks, the parties agreed on a common position on the introduction of regular monitoring, in particular audits “in these third countries,” and support for strengthening controls in terms of food safety.

“We have a big problem, for example, on the border with Ukraine, where we need to strengthen these checks in terms of food safety when importing from these third countries,” he added.

According to Takach, the Polish representative presented materials that clearly demonstrate the need to strengthen such measures.

“I am glad that his materials also mentioned that Poland will propose the creation of a special fund for compensation for imports from third countries if farmers or food producers suffer. I am very pleased that they have adopted this rhetoric and the idea that we have been talking about for almost two years – that it is necessary to create such a compensation fund,” the Slovak minister emphasized.

He noted that the import of agricultural products from third countries is a topical issue for many European countries, which are convinced of the need to increase the protection of their consumers and raise the standards of third countries and their products to meet European Union standards.

“When a farmer in Europe has to comply with certain standards—how much he can spray (agricultural crops), how much he can fertilize, what the production process should be—we must demand the same when importing from third countries. And the creation of a special compensation fund and regular monitoring (of agricultural products) on a monthly basis, rather than once every six months,” summarized the Slovak Minister of Agriculture.

As reported, on January 26, the EU Council on Agriculture was to consider the request of Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria to strengthen the protection of the European market from agricultural imports from Ukraine. The initiating countries argue that the existing mechanisms of the free trade agreement are not sufficient to protect their farmers, especially in sectors such as sugar, meat, grain, and dairy production.

The main demands are the unification of production standards so that Ukrainian products comply with strict EU standards on pesticides and animal welfare, as well as the creation of a special compensation fund for farmers. Until these measures are implemented and stricter border controls are in place, these countries are calling on the European Union to refrain from further tariff liberalization for Ukraine.

 

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