AUB News

On July 30, 2025, a strategic session was held at the Climate Office in Kyiv, dedicated to the implementation of best practices, demonstration projects, and financial models to improve the climate resilience of Ukraine's agricultural sector. The event was organized by the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) in cooperation with the Ministry of Economy, Environment, and Agriculture of Ukraine, with the participation of the Entrepreneurship Development Fund.

Ruslan Kostetsky, Head of Business Development and International Relations at the Association of Ukrainian Banks, took part in the event, along with representatives from AUB member institutions Oschadbank JSC and Creditwest Bank JSC.

During the session, participants discussed current innovations in horticulture—from cultivation to product marketing—taking into account adaptation to climate change. Particular attention was paid to the development of green lending tools in cooperation with partner banks, including compensation of up to 20% of the interest rate under the "PROGRESS" grant project.

GIZ presented the selection criteria for pilot demonstration projects in eight priority regions for crops such as apples, raspberries, strawberries, and walnuts. The importance of adapting Ukrainian taxonomy to European Union standards was also emphasized, which will contribute to the long-term viability of green financial products after the grant funding ends in 2028.

Separate discussion blocks were devoted to issues of investment in modern agricultural technologies, the development of crop and plantation insurance, improving farmers' financial literacy, and the use of alternative energy sources. The idea of launching “green bonds” as the next stage in supporting the sustainable development of the agricultural sector aroused considerable interest.