A significant closed-door meeting took place between agri-food companies, tech businesses, and representatives of the Ministry of Digital Transformation.
“Agribusiness holds enormous potential for digital transformation. We are committed to the development of the entire industry, which is why we take part in important initiatives. It is especially crucial now to join forces with the tech community to create innovations that deliver real value to production and logistics chains,” said Semen Gagarin, CEO of BEEHIVE.
Deputy Minister of Digital Transformation, Oleksandr Bornyakov, emphasized the potential for collaboration between the Diia.City ecosystem and the digital departments of agribusinesses.
Oleksii Dobronravov noted that, thanks to the expansion of the list of business activities (KVEDs), agri-food companies can now enjoy all the benefits of Diia.City residency. It is enough to separate their IT directions or R&D teams into distinct legal entities.
The event marked the beginning of a new stage in cooperation between the agricultural sector and tech companies.
We thank everyone for their involvement!
BEEHIVE, one of the largest honey producers and exporters in Ukraine, has joined the state-backed “National Cashback” program. This initiative aims to boost domestic goods demand and support Ukrainian businesses.
One of the largest honey factories in the country, BEEHIVE produces thousands of tons of high-quality Ukrainian honey each year by international standards. The company operates under the certified FSSC 22000 food safety management system, runs its modern laboratory, and collaborates with leading global experts and laboratories, including Intertek, QSI, and Eurofins.
BEEHIVE honey is enjoyed in Ukraine and exported to over 30 countries worldwide, including Spain, Germany, the UAE, and the United States.
“Honey is a symbol of our land, the work of beekeepers, and a deep cultural tradition. Through quality honey, we tell consumers about our country and the high standards of Ukrainian business. I believe that the ‘National Cashback’ is about more than just cashback. For us, this government initiative represents shared responsibility and faith in our country. By supporting local products, Ukrainians are truly investing in the creation of new jobs, the development of various economic sectors, and the stability of our future. We at BEEHIVE are proud to be part of this important cause,” said Semen Gagarin, CEO of BEEHIVE.
The program provides a 10% cashback to customers who purchase products registered under the “National Cashback” program. This cashback can be used to pay for utilities, medical services, and other essential needs, as well as for charitable contributions or the purchase of military bonds. Receiving cashback is simple—just open a “National Cashback” card at one of the partner banks. More details about the program are available on the official website.
Background
The “National Cashback” program was initiated by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Its goal is to support Ukrainians and stimulate demand for locally made goods. The government provides a 10% cashback for the purchase of Ukrainian-made products, with a maximum cashback amount of 3,000 UAH per month.
The program is part of the national policy to support local manufacturers under the “Made in Ukraine” initiative.
Ukrainian skincare brand Beehive Cosmetics has joined the national “Made in Ukraine” program, which was launched to support domestic manufacturers. Now, every customer who purchases the brand’s products in Ukrainian stores will receive a 10% cashback on their purchase.
Beehive Cosmetics specializes in skincare products based on honey, one of the key elements of Ukrainian identity. The company combines natural Ukrainian honey with advanced technological ingredients to create effective solutions for hair health and beauty.
The “National Cashback” program was developed by the Ministry of Economy in cooperation with the Ministry of Digital Transformation and the National Bank of Ukraine. Its main goal is to stimulate demand for Ukrainian products and support local businesses during wartime.
“Receiving the status of a national manufacturer is a mark of quality for us — and a meaningful part of Beehive Cosmetics’ mission. We are helping to grow Ukraine’s cosmetics industry while supporting the economy. I truly believe we are building an international Ukrainian brand that will strengthen our image globally. By joining the ‘Made in Ukraine’ program, we’re becoming part of a powerful ecosystem where Ukrainian businesses unite to persevere and grow together,” — shared Ihor Liski, co-founder of Beehive Cosmetics.
How does the program work?
When purchasing Beehive Cosmetics products labeled “Made in Ukraine,” customers will receive 10% of the purchase amount back on a special card, issued by partner banks. Funds will be credited the following month and can be used to pay for utilities, healthcare expenses, sports activities, cinema tickets, or transferred to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces or purchase war bonds.
The full list of eligible products can be found in the Diia mobile app or on the website madeinukraine.gov.ua.
On April 24, 2025, the industrial park “Bila Tserkva” will host Industrial Evolution: Manufacturing Powers the Economy – the landmark event of the year for Ukraine’s industrial sector.
The forum will focus on scaling local manufacturing, attracting investment, accessing international markets, and creating the conditions for sustainable industrial growth.
A key highlight will be the panel discussion “Made in Ukraine: The Growth Formula”, moderated by Olha Batova, CEO of EFI Group.
Featured speakers include:
Dmytro Kysylevskyi, Member of Parliament of Ukraine, Deputy Chair of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Economic Development
Ruslan Illichov, Director General of the Federation of Employers of Ukraine
Mykola Kalashnyk, Head of the Kyiv Regional State Administration
Topi Paananen, CEO of Peikko Ukraine
Key topics on the agenda:
How to scale up Ukrainian manufacturing and attract investment
Obstacles to industrial growth and international expansion
Regulatory changes and incentives needed for sustainable development
The role of regions in driving industrial success: challenges, potential, and case studies
The Industrial Evolution forum will also feature:
4 dynamic panel discussions
An innovation & equipment expo zone
The official opening of the new Peikko Group plant
Networking opportunities with partners and investors
Registration is free: https://industry.forumkyiv.org/
Let’s scale Ukrainian industry together!
Olha Batova, CEO of EFI Group, took part in the panel discussion “The Role of Industry Associations and Clusters in Economic Integration into the EU Single Market,” held as part of the event “Economic Integration of Ukrainian Business into the EU Single Market: Action Plan.”
In her speech, she shared practical insights into the collaboration between Ukrainian exporters and industry associations. She emphasized that associations are not just about networking or data exchange — they are powerful tools for safeguarding producers’ interests during the alignment of Ukrainian legislation with EU norms. Through cooperation, businesses can explain the operational specifics of various sectors — such as the honey industry, where Ukrainian exporters have long complied with EU requirements.
“Ukraine is one of the world’s leading honey exporters. In 2023–2024, we ranked fifth in terms of supply volume, and nearly 30% of all honey imports to the EU originated from Ukraine. This success is no coincidence — it’s the result of systematic work by exporters, industry associations, and technological modernization. There are cases where Ukrainian lawmakers introduce EU requirements that don’t even exist in the EU itself. That’s why associations play a vital role in communicating real industry practices and needs to regulators,” noted Olha Batova.
She emphasized that integration into the EU single market is a long-term process requiring consistent effort, openness to change, and collaboration through clusters and associations.
Olha Batova also highlighted the achievements of FEEDNOVA, the first independent platform in Ukraine with a full-cycle animal by-product processing plant. The company is GMP+ International certified and exports to 23 countries.
“We produce high-protein feed additives for farm and domestic animals, which are highly valued in the EU. Ukrainian businesses are ready for integration because they already meet the strict quality standards of international markets. But it’s crucial to continue modernizing the entire industrial sector to meet the demands of the time, earn the trust of buyers, and grow Ukraine’s economy,” she emphasized.
Ukrainian businesses are already integrating into the EU single market not only through product exports but also by adhering to European standards, environmental requirements, supply chain transparency, and technological modernization. True integration, however, also means actively shaping policies, influencing the regulatory environment, and promoting shared interests through associations and clusters. These institutions are becoming the voice of business — capable of shaping the conditions for sustainable growth and Ukraine’s full presence in the EU market.
Among the speakers:
Ihor Liski, Founder of EFI Investment Holding
Anton Tyutyun, Deputy Chairman of Oschadbank
Oleg Drozdov, Founder and Chief Architect at Drozdov & Partners
Dmytro Vasyliiev, Founder and CEO of Archimatika
Valeria Kolomiiets, Director of Environmental Protection and Recovery Initiatives, WWF-Ukraine
This is a dialogue between capital, vision, and responsibility — about a future that’s being built today.
The first annual Forbes Ukraine conference for leaders who are shaping the future. Builders, developers, architects, industrialists, financiers, and government officials will gather to lay the foundation for a new reality.
What is Forbes Development about?
– The energy of business: experience, insights, and pain points from industry leaders
– Effective governance for rebuilding Ukraine
– Investment magnetism: is your city attractive to capital?
– The city-community-developer triangle: how to redirect energy from conflict to powerful development
– Heritage vs. innovation: where is the line between preservation and creation?
– The spirit breathes where it will: innovation for Ukrainian urbanism
Candid conversations, sharp debates, best practices, and future business partners.
Join those who are building the architecture of Ukrainian success.
Tickets available here: https://forbes.ua/events/budivelniy-forum-2025
The event will take place on April 9, 2025, in Kyiv.
Event time: 15:00 – 18:30
Format: Offline + Online
Languages: Ukrainian and English (with simultaneous translation)
Location: Creative States 3, Arsenalna
Special attention should be given to the panel discussion: “The Role of Industry Associations and Clusters in Economic Integration into the EU Single Market.”
In this panel, we will discuss the most promising industries for entering the European market, EU quality standards, challenges, and opportunities to strengthen the export capacity of Ukrainian businesses.
Panel speakers include:
Olha Batova, CEO of EFI Group Investment Company
Andriy Remizov, Director of the Export and Entrepreneurship Support Office
Dmytro Lyvch, Partner at Civitta Ukraine, CEO of EasyBusiness NGO
Eduard Fast, Head of International & Local BizDev at Kharkiv IT Cluster
Bogdan Shapoval, UFood Business Association
Moderator: Ivanna Didur, Associate Partner at Civitta Ukraine
Key topics for discussion:
Which Ukrainian sectors have the greatest potential for entering the European market?
What EU quality standards, certification requirements, and logistical challenges exist?
How can we overcome these barriers and turn opportunities into real export deals?
This event will generate a wealth of important ideas that will lay the foundation for future political changes aimed at supporting Ukrainian SMEs on their path to the EU market.
Semen Haharin, the CEO of BEEHIVE, took part in the meeting with representatives of associations and entrepreneurs working in the honey, nuts, and wild foods sectors, as well as the Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine and the head of the State Tax Service of Ukraine.
The meeting addressed critical issues hindering the development of Ukrainian businesses.
Vitaliy Koval, Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, emphasized the importance of supporting honey, nut, and wild food producers, as this would contribute to the development of rural areas. The attendees discussed problematic legislative aspects that impede business growth. “The task today is to develop legislative changes and simplify the operation of enterprises. The Ministry of Agrarian Policy aims for these industries to become drivers of rural development, especially in areas lacking industrial production,” emphasized Vitaliy Koval.
BEEHIVE is actively involved in addressing the issues that hinder the growth of small and medium-sized businesses in the sector.
This incredible event for Ukrainian business will feature case studies from entrepreneurs and investors with effective business strategies. The panel discussion “Build Ukrainian” will bring together the following speakers:
Ihor Lisky, founder of the investment company EFI Group
Ruslan Shostak, president of the TERWIN corporation, founder of EVA, VARUS
Roman Levchenko, owner of the Lev-Logistik, Lev-Invest group of companies
Mykhailo Shtompel, co-founder of the CKS group of companies
Yevhen Kulikov, head of corporate business at PrivatBank
Together with experts in the first panel discussion, we will discuss:
How to increase Ukraine’s multiplier to reach a $1 trillion GDP
How Ukrainian businesses can scale
Conditions for effective investment attraction
Strategies for adapting to new regulatory conditions
Management strategies that help businesses grow
Among the speakers: top managers from TERWIN, NOVUS, Metinvest, ArcelorMittal, KVERTUS, Starlight Media, BRAVE1, PUMB, Kormotech, PR-Service, SK INGO, as well as officials and over 30 other experts.
When: April 11 | offline | program starts at 9:40 AM
Where: InterContinental, 2A Velyka Zhytomyrska St, Kyiv
Program: 6 panel discussions, offline speeches from speakers, and networking with professionals from various industries.
The BWS will also host the awards ceremony for the TOP-50 CEOs of large Ukrainian companies according to the “TOP-100. Ratings of the largest” magazine.
You can register for tickets on the website: https://bws.delo.ua/
We look forward to meeting you!
EFI Group founder Ihor Liski and CEO Olga Batova took part in a business forum in Italy dedicated to the development of small and medium-sized businesses and international cooperation as part of the preparations for the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC2025).
During the event, it was announced that Italy has joined the platform for the development of small and medium-sized businesses in Ukraine – the “MSB Resilience Alliance,” which already unites 37 member countries. The total volume of the Alliance’s initiatives exceeds €7 billion, of which €3.9 billion is allocated to new projects to support Ukrainian entrepreneurs.
Igor Liski emphasized the importance of international cooperation for Ukraine’s economic recovery: “Ukraine’s investment attractiveness is the foundation of our future development. We are grateful to our international partners, particularly Italy, for their support, which will enable the development of local production and create new opportunities for Ukrainian business. I believe that we will succeed and implement investment projects of global significance in Ukraine.”
The First Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Economy of Ukraine, Yuliia Svyrydenko, also highlighted the significant interest of Italian businesses in cooperation with Ukraine. According to her, instead of the expected 300 companies, 700 participants joined the forum, including 100 Ukrainian enterprises.
For EFI Group, it is extremely important to work towards multifaceted international partnership development and stimulate the country’s recovery through its own projects.
“Today’s forum is another step towards building a strong network of economic partnerships between Ukraine and Italy. Joint initiatives in the fields of construction, agricultural processing, metallurgy, and mechanical engineering open up prospects for localization of production and attracting foreign investments,” – emphasized Olha Batova, CEO of EFI Group.
EFI Group continues to actively participate in initiatives for economic recovery and the creation of new opportunities for the development of small and medium-sized businesses in Ukraine.