Reforms in the Water Sector Under Discussion
At the Black Sea Grain Kyiv 2026 event, participants examined Ukraine's irrigation reform and the future of agricultural water supply. The focus was on transforming water resource management through new legislation, the establishment of water user organizations, and the introduction of an operator-led model for irrigation systems.
Currently, 77 water user organizations are active across the country and are expected to play a key role in driving these changes. Deputy Minister Iryna Ovcharenko emphasized:
'The state has laid the legal groundwork and opened up fresh opportunities, but now the responsibility and initiative lie with the water users themselves.' Iryna Ovcharenko, Deputy Minister
Why This Initiative Matters for Agriculture
This reform marks a significant step toward modernizing Ukraine's water management system, which could have a major impact on the agricultural sector and global food security. By involving water user organizations, the country aims to use water resources more efficiently and better adapt to climate change—an increasingly urgent challenge in today's world.
As Ukraine advances its water management reforms, the establishment of a task force to align chemical regulations with EU standards is also underway. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to enhance agricultural practices and environmental safety. To understand how these regulatory changes can impact the agricultural sector, read more about the efforts to harmonize regulations with EU standards.