Business news from Ukraine

Business news from Ukraine

Ukrposhta received net profit in fourth quarter thanks to sale of property

The national postal operator Ukrposhta received a net profit of UAH 257.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2025, which is 69.2% more than in the same period in 2024, according to the company’s interim report.

“The net profit target was exceeded, while the net income and EBITDA targets were not met, thanks to additional income from the sale of the company’s property, which amounted to UAH 168 million against a target of UAH 46 million,” the document states.

According to the report, Ukrposhta increased its revenue in the fourth quarter by UAH 10.7 million compared to the same period in 2024, to UAH 3 billion 601.6 million, but this was UAH 676.0 million less than planned.

The company explained that compared to the same period last year, there was an increase in revenue from the delivery of written correspondence, trade, and other commercial services, while other services saw a decline in revenue.

EBITDA for the reporting period increased by 49.7% compared to the fourth quarter of 2024, reaching UAH 461.5 million, but according to the plan, it should have amounted to UAH 591.1 million.

It is noted that in the fourth quarter of 2025, the company accepted 20.5 million domestic and international letters (22.7 million in the same period of 2024), 11.8 million parcels (13.3 million), and 21.5 million (23.3 million) payments.

According to the report, Ukrposhta currently has 5,100 stationary points (5,200 in the fourth quarter of 2024), which serve 11,100 service points, 2,000 mobile points (2.1 thousand in Q4 2024), which serve 20.13 thousand service points.

The average number of full-time employees in Q4 2025 was 26.6 thousand (28.9 thousand in Q4 2024), and the average salary was UAH 18,800 (in Q4 2024 – UAH 17,800), according to the report.

Also, during the fourth quarter, the company launched a network of the first 100 automatic post office machines in Kyiv and Odesa, updated its mobile application and CRM system. In addition, the company’s branches began accepting payment for goods with the Natskeshbek card.

According to the report, Ukrposhta’s plans for 2026 include investing in digital systems, in particular expanding the functionality of the mobile application, CRM systems, and others. It also plans to expand new parcel terminals in the regions and optimize delivery routes, strengthen operational activities, and enhance its cybersecurity program.

As reported, in the third quarter of 2025, Ukrposhta increased its losses by 10.4% compared to the same period last year, to UAH 151.8 million, with a 6.2% decrease in revenue, to UAH 3 billion 18.1 million, while EBITDA amounted to UAH 100.4 million compared to UAH 298.6 million in the same period of 2024.

In the first half of 2025, the company increased its revenue by 5.4% compared to the same period last year, to UAH 6 billion 505.0 million, reducing its net loss by 27.2% to UAH 311.8 million.

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Uzbekistan has eliminated customs duties on imports of 82 types of raw materials

Uzbekistan has eliminated customs duties on imports of 82 types of raw materials and semi-finished products until January 1, 2027.
Zero rates for these types of products were first introduced in October 2021 and were valid until January 1, 2024.
The list includes, in particular: castor oil, asbestos, sodium hydroxide (caustic soda), dyes, artificial fur, artificial wax, ready-made adhesives, photo emulsion for textile printing, paper and cardboard, cotton fabrics, linen fabrics, fabrics made of artificial and synthetic fibers, glass fiber, glass fiber fabrics, loudspeakers, and others.
Measures to reduce customs duties were applied in order to support domestic manufacturing enterprises and increase exports of value-added products.
As a reminder, Uzbekistan previously extended zero customs duties for a number of food products and children’s clothing until January 1, 2027.
In addition, until January 1, 2031, special equipment, spare parts and components, raw materials and materials that are not produced in the country and are used in the technological processes of enterprises for the disposal of household, construction and medical waste, as well as the production of biodegradable polymer materials, are also exempt from customs duties.

 

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DTEK has returned to hourly power cuts for customers in Kyiv region

The DTEK energy holding company has returned to hourly power cuts (HPC) for consumers in the Kyiv region, the company said on its Telegram channel on Monday.

“Energy companies have managed to stabilize the power supply situation in the Kyiv region. At the same time, it remains difficult and may change,” the company said.

According to the schedules provided in DTEK’s statement, the current HOPS in the Kyiv region provide for intervals of 7 hours without electricity during the daytime.

“In case of changes, we will inform you on our Telegram channel,” DTEK warned consumers.

At the same time, as of January 24, emergency power outage schedules (GAO) continued to operate in Kyiv and several regions of Ukraine.

 

Airbnb language traps: How not to mess up your accommodation with Google Translate

Imagine: you booked a “cozy apartment in the center of Rome.” The photos show stylish minimalism, and the description promises an unforgettable vacation. You arrive, and “cozy” means 10 square meters without a window, and “center” means a noisy train station behind the wall. Why did this happen? Because you and the host spoke different languages, even if you both used English.

Airbnb is not just a booking service, it is a space for intercultural communication, where one misunderstood word can cost you comfort, nerves, or money and be like a real online English test for you.

In this article, we will analyze real cases, learn to read between the lines, and edit your messages so that the host sees you as the perfect guest.

1. Code “Euphemism”: What is the host really writing?

Airbnb hosts are marketing masters. They rarely lie outright, but often use “vague” phrases. If your online English doesn’t allow you to see these nuances yet, here is a short dictionary-translator:

“Charming / Cosy” — In reality: A very small room. You may bump your elbows on the walls.

“Lively neighborhood” — In reality: Three bars under the windows that are open until 4 a.m.

“Original features” — In reality: Old plumbing, creaky floors, and no elevator.

“Minimalist design” — Reality: The apartment only has a bed and a table. There may not even be a towel hook.

“Eco-friendly heating” — Reality: The apartment will be cold because the owner saves on heating.

Case #1: The story of a “truly authentic experience”

A guest booked accommodation in Morocco. The description said: “Authentic traditional house with natural ventilation.”

Reality: The house had no air conditioning, and “natural ventilation” meant holes in the walls and no windowpanes in some windows.

Tip: Always clarify the technical details. For example: “Does ‘natural ventilation’ mean there are open spaces without glass, or is there an AC unit?”

2. The art of the first message: How not to get rejected

Many people make the mistake of simply clicking “Book.” But experienced travelers know that a short personal message increases your chances of the host being more loyal to you (and possibly allowing early check-in).

Bad example (Too robotic):

“I want to book your flat from 10 to 15. Is it free? Give me a discount.”

Why it’s bad: It sounds rude. The host doesn’t know who you are and sees you as nothing more than a source of trouble.

Good example (Modern & Friendly):

“Hi Marco! My name is Alex, and I’m visiting Rome for a short work-and-travel trip. Your place looks stunning, especially that terrace! I’m a quiet guest and I’ll be out most of the day exploring. Looking forward to staying at your place!”

3. Language traps in dialogues: Real correspondence

Let’s see how one inaccurate phrase can cause chaos.

Situation: Question about breakfast

Guest writes: “Do you have breakfast?”

Host replies: “There is a cafe nearby.”

Guest’s expectation: Breakfast is included, just need to go to the nearby cafe.

Reality: The guest arrives and finds out that they have to pay for the cafe themselves.

How to ask:

“Is breakfast included in the price, or do you just mean there are cafes in the area?”

Situation: Check-in

Guest: “Can I come early?”

Host: “The previous guest leaves at 11, then we clean. You can drop your bags.”

Mistake: The guest arrived at 11:30 and got angry that the apartment was not ready.

Analysis: “Drop your bags” means only to leave your suitcases in the hallway, not to check in.

How to clarify:

“Just to clarify, can I stay in the room from 11:30, or should I wait until the cleaning is finished?”

4. Editing your messages: Making English polite

In English, politeness is conveyed through modal verbs (could, would, might) and softening phrases. Direct requests often sound like commands.

5. Practical cases: Getting out of awkward situations

Case #2: Problem with neighbors

You’ve checked in, and there’s construction going on next door. You don’t want to argue, but it’s impossible to work.

Your strategy: Don’t blame the host right away. Use the phrase “I was wondering if…”

“Hi Sarah! I noticed there’s some construction noise next door. I was wondering if you know how long it usually lasts? I have a few online meetings today, so I’d appreciate any info.”

Case #3: Change of plans

You need to leave a day early and want a partial refund (even though the rules don’t allow it).

Your strategy: Ask for a favor, don’t demand it.

“I’ve had an emergency and need to leave a day early. I know the cancellation policy is strict, but would you consider a partial refund for the last night? No worries if not, just thought I’d ask!”

6. Checklist before clicking “Send”

  1. Check for “False Friends”: Make sure you haven’t used words that have a different meaning in English (for example, don’t write cabinet to mean “wardrobe” — it means a cabinet of ministers or a cabinet under the sink; it’s better to use wardrobe or closet).
  2. Be Specific: Instead of “not far,” ask “How many minutes on foot?”
  3. Screenshot it: Always save screenshots of important promises made by the host in the Airbnb chat. This is your only insurance.

Why is language your key to better apartments?

When you are fluent in the language, you are no longer just “customer No. 452.” You become an interesting conversation partner, a guest who wants to recommend the best restaurant “for their own” or get a free room upgrade.

Knowing the nuances of communication helps not only to avoid pitfalls, but also to build relationships. And confidence comes with practice. Today, English online allows you to practice exactly these kinds of real-life situations: from corresponding with a host in London to resolving conflicts in New York. Don’t wait until your next vacation to find out that you don’t understand something.

Our English courses are based on live communication and real-life situations. We don’t just teach grammar — we teach you to be confident, polite, and protected in any country in the world. You will master the art of small talk, learn to write flawless letters, and understand the hidden meaning in the words of foreigners. Your next Airbnb trip can be perfect thanks to your confident language skills. Ready to speak like a Superhost? Join us!

Prepared by ENGLISH.KH.UA

 

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Minth plans to build €870 million factory and create 2,200 jobs in Injiya

According to Serbian Economist, the authorities in Injiya have confirmed that the Minth Group is moving forward with the launch of a mega-project in Vojvodina. The first stage involves land registration: part of the territory has already been purchased, and the package of documents for the remaining 210 hectares is “in the final stages.” If negotiations are completed without delay, construction could start as early as June 2026.

What has been announced about the project

According to the parameters that have been publicly discussed since 2024–2025, the project involves a plant for the production of components for the electric vehicle industry:

— investment — up to €870 million (over several years/phases),

— new jobs — about 2,200,

site size — 210 hectares, which is unusually large even by the standards of large-scale industry.

The size of the project will change the economy of the region.

For Inji, this means a jump in employment, tax base, logistics development, and demand for contractors — from construction companies to services and suppliers.

This is part of Minth’s “big package” in Serbia.

Minth already has a presence in the country: the company entered Serbia in 2018 (first production facility in Loznica, then Šabac) and is discussing expansion at several sites.

In addition to Inji, in 2025, the media reported on Minth’s additional plans for new factories and jobs in other cities in Serbia — the total scale of investment is close to billions of euros.

Serbia is consolidating its role as an industrial base for auto components.

Minth is a global supplier of auto parts and solutions for body/structural components, working with dozens of brands. For Serbia, this means strengthening its “auto cluster” and potential growth in export revenue.

At this scale, any bureaucratic delay will prolong the project by months.

Human resources and wage competition: 2,200 jobs in a single project will inevitably “pull” the labor market in the region.

Infrastructure and energy: a plant of this size will require a stable power supply, logistics, and supply chain, otherwise the effect will be lower than expected.

If the announced deadlines are met, Injiya could become one of the key points of Serbia’s industrial growth in 2026–2028, with a strong focus on components for the new automotive industry.

https://t.me/relocationrs/2159

 

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Shevchuk criticizes candidates for competition commissions without relevant experience

Competition commissions for selecting candidates for managerial and administrative positions should include professionals with relevant competencies, according to Oleksiy Shevchuk, a lawyer and member of the competition commission for selecting SAP management.

“Competition commissions are not about slogans. They require competencies: law, management, compliance, integrity, procedure, the ability to work with evidence, the ability to ask the right questions and record positions,” he said in an interview with the Judicial and Legal Newspaper.

Shevchuk noted that it is typical for “some public activists to lack specialized education, relevant experience, management skills, and, frankly speaking, often a proven track record of professional work.”

“This is not an insult or a label. It is a practical criterion. The problem is that we hardly see any so-called ‘public opinion leaders’ who have been calling for ‘system change’ for years. When it comes to the responsible level — submitting documents, going through interviews, taking on legal risks and work discipline — many are simply not there,” he stressed.

Shevchuk noted that by participating in the commission on administrative positions in the SAP, he “actually represents the bar as part of the justice system.”

“The bar is not an outside observer, but an institution that works daily in the processes and sees how the rights of the defense are respected (or violated). The competition for administrative positions in the SAPO is complex, sensitive, and high-stakes, because it concerns the management functions and working standards of the body,” he said.

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