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Parliamentary question - P-000936/2014Parliamentary question
P-000936/2014

Enabling importation of artificial collagen casings into Ukraine

Question for written answer P-000936-14
to the Commission
Rule 117
Jan Březina (PPE)

The Spanish firm Viscofan is the world’s largest manufacturer of artificial casings for use mainly in the food industry. Its subsidiary company, Viscofan CZ, has been exporting collagen casings — traded under customs code 39171010 — for 15 years to Ukraine, where it is represented by two official importers.

In December 2013, the two importers had their deliveries, worth a total of EUR 212 873, blocked without explanation. These deliveries have not been released, in spite of the numerous inquiries and reminders sent. Furthermore, both importers are facing administrative obstacles, particularly in the form of a demand for an import permit which is not specified in detail. Official requests for the granting of a permit have thus far been rejected for a variety of reasons, such as the requirement that the rental agreement on the warehouse be extended, or a need for confirmation of the importers' status as official importers, and so on. Although it was proven that these requirements had been met, no permit has thus far been granted. This is making it impossible to export produce worth EUR 1 000 000 that has been prepared for delivery to Ukraine.

How should the importers proceed in order to secure the release of the goods held by the Ukrainian authorities and to enable the export of produce prepared for delivery to Ukraine?

What steps can the Commission take to support the importers and to protect their rights in Ukraine?

OJ C 296, 03/09/2014