#Spain #Ukraine #Kyiv #MHP

Introduction

The recent inaugural meeting of the Ukraine-Spain Business Council in Kyiv highlighted the strengthening of economic partnerships between the two countries. Chaired by Mykhailo Bno-Airiian, VP for Global Affairs at MHP, the council aims to facilitate collaboration among businesses and promote investment opportunities.

The Event

On July 16, 2026, a delegation from Spain arrived in Kyiv to discuss economic cooperation, coinciding with the visit of the Ukrainian-Spanish Intergovernmental Commission on Economic and Industrial Cooperation. Key attendees included Carlos Cuerpo, Spain's First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, and Oleksii Sobolev, Ukraine's Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture. The gathering also featured business leaders from both nations, along with representatives from prominent Ukrainian and Spanish companies.

Establishment of the Council

Mykhailo Bno-Airiian emphasized the purpose of the Business Council as a consistent platform for Ukrainian and Spanish businesses, fostering partnerships and facilitating investment for joint projects. He remarked, "Ukraine is not a threat to the European economy. Instead, it's one of Europe’s greatest economic opportunities." Bno-Airiian advocated for Spain's role as a significant voice within the European Union, supporting Ukraine's integration into the European economic landscape.

A New Economic Stage

The discussions marked a pivotal shift as Ukrainian companies began exporting goods to Europe while collaborating with European partners to enhance economic resilience, particularly in the agri-food sector. For instance, MHP's investment in UVESA, a leading Spanish poultry producer, along with Farmak's involvement in pharmaceutical production in Spain, underscores the increasing presence of Ukrainian firms in the European economy, thereby supporting the EU's strategic autonomy.

Trade Relations

Bilateral trade between Ukraine and Spain exceeded $3 billion in 2025, showcasing robust growth in economic ties despite ongoing challenges due to the war. Cuerpo emphasized the essence of reconstruction, stating, "We are talking about economic growth and future prosperity." He noted an unprecedented level of interest from Spanish companies, which he views as a promising sign for future collaborations.

Diverse Participation

The meeting brought together more than 70 businesses and associations from Ukraine, including MHP, DTEK, Metinvest, and others, alongside notable Spanish firms like Airbus, INDRA, and ACCIONA. This diverse representation reflects the commitment of both nations to deepen economic ties and explore new opportunities for collaboration.

Conclusion

For MHP, participating in the Ukraine-Spain Business Council signals a chance to strengthen partnerships with Spanish businesses and institutions. It is a pathway to deepen bilateral economic cooperation and support Ukraine's integration into the European economy through private-sector investment. As the nations work closely together, the potential for mutual growth and shared prosperity becomes increasingly evident.

About MHP

MHP SE stands as a leading international food and agri company, recognized as one of Europe's largest poultry producers. With a robust vertical integration model, MHP engages in all aspects from grain cultivation to poultry processing and distribution. The company exports to over 80 countries and its shares are publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange.