Kyiv, Ukraine – Legal experts are advocating for a comprehensive strategy to combat “gray” imports using modern technologies. Olga Zav’yazun, a lawyer in the Business Support practice at Juscutum, emphasizes that leveraging innovative solutions is essential for ensuring consumers have access to legitimate products, complete with satisfactory service and legal protections.
Zav’yazun highlights the development of online platforms that enable consumers to verify product authenticity through serial numbers and other identification details. This technology can enhance consumer confidence by confirming the legality of the goods they purchase.
She also notes that regional differentiation is an effective measure against gray imports. Different model names for distinct markets, customized software, and specific markings, such as adding “UA” to model codes intended for Ukraine, can aid in differentiating officially imported products from unofficial ones. Brands like EcoFlow, Apple, and Samsung have implemented systems that permit customers to validate their device’s authenticity, a move geared toward thwarting unofficial imports.
A critical element in this battle, according to Zav’yazun, is the need for market education. She advocates for systematic informational campaigns aimed at consumers, outlining the benefits of purchasing from authorized sellers while shedding light on the risks tied to gray market goods. Particular focus should be placed on warranty services, technical support, and compliance with local regulations.
Moreover, Zav’yazun stresses the importance of ongoing market surveillance by regulatory bodies and law enforcement, especially in the realm of online sales. E-commerce represents a significant avenue for the distribution of unofficial goods. She suggests that keeping a close watch on major online platforms can help identify violations, recommending careful documentation of illegal sales through controlled purchases.
To effectively tackle the issue of gray imports, Zav’yazun argues for a multifaceted approach that combines legal, technological, and marketing strategies. The key to success lies in a coordinated effort among all stakeholders in the marketplace.
Investments at the state level to bolster protections against unofficial imports should be viewed as integral to long-term economic development rather than mere expenses, she asserts. This strategic mindset could lead to sustainable outcomes in the fight against gray imports, ultimately ensuring consumers have access to high-quality goods backed by legal protections.
Challenges remain significant, as experts reveal that Ukraine’s State Budget suffers billions in losses annually due to gray import schemes that adversely affect both small suppliers and major retail chains alike. Instances of tax evasion have been documented, including one case involving the Yabko and Yabluka retail chains, revealing over UAH 286 million in VAT evasion.
Additionally, reports have surfaced detailing organized schemes for importing Apple products through intermediaries in Southeast Asia, where items are falsely declared to avoid detection. Investigative journalist Andriy Plinsky estimates that over 5,000 devices enter the country illegally each day. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, the budget experienced losses exceeding UAH 1.8 billion, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
Statistics reveal a stark disparity in imports and device activations in Ukraine, suggesting that over 80% of technology enters the country through illegal means. Instances of contraband seizures remain low, further indicating that enforcement agencies are not adequately addressing the issue.
Competent authorities, particularly the Bureau of Economic Security, are urged to take more concerted action to counter these shadow schemes. Continued inaction could lead to further budgetary losses and perpetuate the gray market.
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