UNLA participated in a professional discussion on compliance in Ukraine’s agricultural sector

On June 4, 2026, Ms. Vitaliia Hloba, a representative of the Ukrainian National Lobbyists Association, took part in a panel discussion titled “Ukraine’s Agricultural Sector: Challenges or New Opportunities? Is Now the Time to Invest in Compliance?”, which took place in Kyiv as part of Integrity Matters Business Integrity Month.

The event focused on current issues in the development of Ukraine’s agricultural sector amid increasing demands for transparency, responsible business practices, risk management, and compliance with international standards. Participants discussed whether compliance today is an additional burden for businesses or, on the contrary, a necessary investment in sustainability, reputation, partner trust, and access to new markets.

The event format included a review of practical case studies from companies operating in the agricultural and related sectors. Particular attention was paid to issues of integrity in interactions with counterparties, monitoring business processes, preparing for certification, risk assessment, as well as the role of compliance in attracting investment and developing international cooperation.

The discussion was moderated by Olena Makarenko, a partner in Risk Consulting and ESG at KPMG Ukraine.

The speakers at the event included:

• Anna Lazurenko, Head of the Legal Department at Nibulon;
• Tarzisius K. Nitta, Advisor on Risk Management and Regulatory Compliance for the United Nations World Food Programme in Ukraine;
• Kateryna Bernas, Head of the Legal Department at BASF Ukraine and General Counsel at BASF;
• Kateryna Anisimova, Quality Director at the Ternopil Dairy Plant, TM “Molokiya,” who joined the event online;
• Oksana Burburska, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer at Continental Farmers Group.

The participation of a UNLA representative in the event marked an important continuation of the Association’s efforts to promote a culture of transparent, professional, and ethical advocacy in Ukraine. For the lobbying community, the issue of compliance is of particular importance, as integrity, transparency of procedures, accountability, and clear rules of engagement form the foundation of trust between business, the government, and society.

During the discussion, it was also emphasized that the agricultural sector remains one of the key sectors of the Ukrainian economy, and therefore the implementation of high-quality compliance practices in this area is of not only corporate but also strategic importance. This involves enhancing the competitiveness of Ukrainian companies, strengthening their reputation on the international stage, and creating the conditions for long-term partnerships.

The expert discussion was part of the broader Integrity Matters initiative, which brings together representatives from the business community, international organizations, the academic community, and the public sector to address issues of business integrity, anti-corruption standards, and responsible corporate governance.

UNLA’s participation in such events demonstrates the professional community’s willingness to contribute to fostering a meaningful dialogue on transparency, accountability, and integrity as essential prerequisites for the development of Ukraine’s modern economy.