Zero Tariff Still Valid! Full Guide to Duty-Free Import of Energy Equipment into Ukraine
I. Policy Background: Why Ukraine Grants Duty Exemptions for Energy Storage Equipment
Starting from July 2024, Ukraine has waived import duties and VAT on energy equipment to accelerate the restoration and reconstruction of its energy infrastructure. The Ukrainian government has extended this preferential policy until 1 January 2029, offering enterprises a stable policy window for importing energy storage equipment.
Two types of taxes are covered by the exemption:
- Import duty: standard rate up to 10%
- VAT: rate at 20%
Combined, qualified energy equipment can achieve a cost reduction of over 25% on import.
II. Eligible Products for Zero Tariff
The preferential treatment is determined not by product name, but by HS codes and technical specifications. Major eligible categories are listed below:
- Generators
- Piston internal combustion generators with power exceeding 7.5 kVA (HS codes: 8502 20 40 90, 8502 20 60 90, 8502 20 80 90)
- Lithium batteries
- Lithium-ion batteries (HS code: 8507 60 00 00) with capacity ≥100Ah
- Lithium polymer batteries, LFP batteries and other variants are included
- Inverters
- Static electric converters (HS codes: 8504 40 84 00, 8504 40 88 00)
- Others
- PV modules
- Wind power installations
- Gas turbines
⚠️ Special Note – Products NOT eligible for the exemption:
- Generators with power below 7.5 kVA
- Energy storage systems, charging stations and power banks with power below 300W
- Individual lithium-ion cells with capacity below 200Ah
III. Procedures for Duty-Free Import Application
Step 1: Verify product HS code Before shipment, confirm the corresponding HS code based on product technical parameters and check whether the code falls within the preferential list. Incorrect HS code declaration is the most frequent cause of failed exemption application.
Step 2: Prepare application documents Meest China provides clients with duty-free application templates. Required documents:
- Duty-free application form (Meest template)
- Battery specification sheet (including capacity, power, battery chemistry and other technical parameters)
- Customs documentation: commercial invoice, packing list, etc.
Step 3: Warehouse inspection For shipments requiring wooden crating (e.g., oversized energy storage cabinets), crates must be fitted with hinges. The Meest warehouse will verify whether the marked parameters on batteries match the declared information.
Step 4: Customs declaration The Meest customs clearance team will submit the duty-free application and complete customs declaration & release.
IV. Common Pitfalls & Mitigation Guide
| Common Issues | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Incorrect HS code declaration | Ask the Meest team to verify HS code prior to shipment |
| Non-compliant product specifications | Confirm capacity ≥100Ah or power＞300W |
| Non-compliant wooden crate packaging | Fit crates with hinges for warehouse battery parameter inspection |
| Inconsistent information across documents | Keep data aligned on specification sheets, invoices and packing lists |
| Misconception that all EcoFlow products qualify for exemption | EcoFlow is a brand name; HS code must be checked against individual models |
With the rapid expansion of Ukraine’s energy storage market and gradual maturation of local supply chains, early entrants will secure a stronger first-mover advantage. There is still time to ship goods to Ukraine by sea — a more cost-effective option while enjoying the current tariff incentives.
Need the duty-free application template or want to check if your products qualify?
Scan the QR code of our assistant at the bottom to get:
- Duty-free application template
- Profitability calculator
- List of top 10 high-margin products for the Ukrainian market
