What challenges and opportunities define Ukraine’s path through the next stage of war, recovery, and global change? This was the focus of the “Nova Krayina: Current Challenges” panel discussion organized by LB.ua in partnership with EFI Group.
The conversation brought together leading voices in politics, business, and analytics to discuss the key questions of security, strategy, and national resilience.
🟢 Olha Stefanishyna, Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, drew attention to the dangerous trend of Russia’s gradual legitimization in international media and diplomacy.
🔵 Oleksandr Korniyenko, First Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada, emphasized that the attack on the Cabinet of Ministers once again underscored the threats to decision-making centers and the country’s institutional stability.
🟡 Illia Pavlenko, political expert, outlined two possible scenarios for Ukraine’s development: a continuation of the “hot” phase of the war or a strategic focus on security, reconstruction, and long-term growth.
🔵 Oleksiy Antypovych, Head of the “Rating” sociological group, presented fresh public opinion data, showing that Ukrainians support the search for compromises but reject the idea of “peace at any cost.”
🟢 Ihor Liski, founder of EFI Group, stressed that both business and society need a clear vision of victory — one that should be demanded from the government and international partners:
“We are still holding on… but it can’t last forever. If we see that the war might be endless — then show us what exactly we are fighting for.”
The discussion concluded with a shared understanding: the future of Ukraine is not only about challenges but also about shared responsibility — a responsibility to be carried together by the state, business, international allies, and citizens.
Olha Batova, CEO of EFI Group, moderated a discussion on the CEO Club podcast about the international expansion of Ukrainian manufacturers.
Together with Yuriy Sorochynskyi, CEO of Nemiroff, and Valentyn Zaporozhchuk, founder and president of PRAVIO Group, the speakers discussed what it takes for Ukrainian businesses to go global:
why a strong position in the local market is a prerequisite for export;
how the first export attempts looked for their companies;
why businesses need international experts;
models of cooperation with distributors and partners abroad;
the role of trade fairs and networking in entering new markets;
bureaucracy, regulations, and cultural differences;
adapting products to local conditions;
how Made in Ukraine is perceived worldwide today;
competing with global players;
common mistakes in international expansion.
It was an open conversation about the barriers and opportunities Ukrainian businesses face on the global stage.
🎧 Listen to the new episode of the CEO Club podcast.
We are excited to share wonderful news! EFI-Agro has received an honorary award from Retail Group for many years of cooperation and reliable partnership. The holding includes well-known retail chains such as Velika Kyshenya, VELMART, and others.
This award is a recognition of our consistency, responsibility, and high standards of work. For us, partnership means much more than product supply. We build long-term relationships based on trust and stability, offering predictability and a service that exceeds expectations. The products delivered by EFI-Agro always meet the highest quality standards. At every stage, we bring expertise — from logistics to in-depth category analytics.
We are grateful to Retail Group for their trust and proud to be part of our shared growth. Ahead of us lie even more effective solutions and confident steps forward!
Global glass industry leaders unite to deliver Ukraine’s largest float glass production project
Rome, 10 July, 2025
Ukrainian project NovaSklo and three leading European glass equipment manufacturers: Horn Glass Industries AG (Germany), Zippe Industrieanlagen GmbH (Germany), and Bottero S.p.A. (Italy) signed a cooperation agreement during the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC) 2025 in Rome.
The agreement establishes the foundation for the strategic partnership within the NovaSklo Project framework. The partners will collaborate on engineering, project management, and equipment supply preparation for NovaSklo, Ukraine’s first high-tech float glass manufacturing plant. The project attracts over €240 million in investment and is implemented at the initiative of the investment company EFI Group with support from UkraineInvest and Ukraine’s Ministry of Economy. The glass manufacturing plant is planned to be built in the Kyiv region by 2028.
“Ukraine’s recovery must be based on modern industry and partnerships that bring technologies, experience, and mutual growth. I am convinced that NovaSklo will become the foundation for the sustainable development of Ukraine’s construction industry. Our comprehensive strategic partnership is an excellent example that investing in Ukraine is needed right now,” shared Igor Liski, CEO of NovaSklo and founder of EFI Group.
NovaSklo serves as the project’s lead developer and is responsible for coordinating all phases and integrating partners’ contributions into the plant’s development strategy. Horn Glass Industries, Bottero, and Zippe have already begun providing engineering and project services, including technical design, equipment configuration, and engineering expertise in their respective areas.
“We are proud to participate in this innovative project. NovaSklo Project meets our standards of innovation and quality, and we are ready to contribute our experience in creating the most efficient float glass production solutions,” stated Stephan Meindl, CEO of Horn Glass Industries.
The NovaSklo project will become the epicenter of transformation for related industries and strengthen Ukraine’s industrial development. The plant will reduce dependence on float glass imports and create a foundation for exporting high-quality products. The facility’s production capacity will amount to 24.8 million square meters of glass per year. The plant will utilize its deposit of quartz sand, which has the highest quality indicators in the country, specifically for the production of ultra-clear structural float glass. The team has already secured the land plot for the facility and signed an agreement with the general design contractor.
“With 60 years of experience across all glass industry sectors and a unique specialization in production process automation make us a reliable partner. I am confident that our expertise will help create a world-class plant that will become a catalyst for the development of the entire glass industry in the region,” noted Alberto Masoero, Executive Director Sales, Marketing & After Sales – Flat Glass Bottero.
This multilateral agreement provides for technical consulting, engineering support, and equipment configuration development during the plant’s planning and design phases. Final terms for equipment and technology supply will be outlined in separate commercial agreements.
“As a global leader in equipment manufacturing for batch and cullet processing with over 100 years of experience, we see NovaSklo as an ideal opportunity to demonstrate our automation expertise. We have united into a professional team of partners to create one of the most efficient plants in Europe and continue developing our industry,” added Philipp Zippe, CEO of Zippe.
Olha Batova, CEO of the investment company EFI Group, also noted that the team has already secured a technical partnership agreement with a strategic partner, one of the world`s top three float glass manufacturers, and expects to sign the agreement in the near future.
Press сontacts: NovaSklo, Nadia Kravchenko, Email: [email protected], Phone: +38063 577 88 09
Information:
NovaSklo is a Ukrainian company implementing the project to create Ukraine’s first high-tech float glass manufacturing plant in Kyiv region. The project is supported by EFI Group and implemented in partnership with leading European float glass equipment manufacturers.
Horn Glass Industries AG is a German expert in glass melting technologies, supplying equipment for float glass, container glass, and specialty glass. The company stands out for its high level of vertical integration enabling it to offer comprehensive solutions from individual components to turnkey plants.
Zippe Industrieanlagen GmbH is a leading global manufacturer of technologies and equipment for batch preparation and cullet processing for the glass industry. The company has over 100 years of experience in designing and implementing solutions for automation and energy efficiency in the glass production. Over 700 projects have been implemented worldwide, including partnerships with major glass manufacturers in Europe, Asia, America, and Africa.
Bottero S.p.A. is an Italian leader in manufacturing high-tech equipment for the glass industry, known for innovative solutions in automation and glass processing. The Italian company has been operating for over 60 years and is represented in more than 100 countries worldwide. The company is renowned for its innovative technologies, equipment reliability, and solution flexibility, allowing clients to optimize production processes and increase efficiency.
Dear Members of the Press,
The investment company EFI Group and NovaSklo are pleased to invite you to the official signing ceremony of the Cooperation Agreement between NovaSklo, Horn Glass Industries AG, Bottero S.p.A., and Zippe Industrieanlagen GmbH, which will take place during the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC) 2025 in Rome.
This ceremony marks a significant milestone in advancing Ukraine’s largest high-tech float glass production project, with over €240 million in investment and implementation in partnership with leading European manufacturers of float glass equipment. The plant will be built in the Kyiv region by 2028, and strengthen Ukraine’s industrial resilience while reducing dependence on imports and laying the foundation for high-quality exports.
Event Details:
Date: 10 July 2025
Time: 15:30
Venue: Roma Convention Center La Nuvola. The room number will be confirmed later.
Following the signing ceremony, accredited media representatives are invited to join a networking session with representatives of NovaSklo, Horn, Bottero, and Zippe, as well as EFI Group and government officials, to discuss Ukraine’s reconstruction and industrial development.
Interview opportunities with:
This event will provide exclusive insights into how Ukraine’s recovery is driven by modern industry, technological innovation, and strategic international partnerships.
Please confirm your attendance by replying to this invitation.
Press Contact:
Nadiіa Kravchenko
[email protected]
+380 63 577 88 09
“Today, we are not merely discussing investments; we are shaping Ukraine’s new economic reality.”
– shared Olha Batova, CEO of EFI Group, during her speech at the II Investment Forum in Kyiv.On June 13, at the Hilton Kyiv, Olha Batova joined the panel discussion “Investment Risks and Tools for Mitigation,” where, together with industry leaders, she discussed the most pressing challenges and future prospects for Ukraine’s economic development.
Moderator:
Serhiy Pohrebnoi, Partner at Sayenko KharenkoPanelists:
- Olha Batova, CEO of EFI Group
- Ihor Kabouzenko, Managing Partner at Ward Howell Ukraine
- Iryna Lohvynovska, Advisor at SK Security
- Andriy Nosok, Managing Director and Head of Private Equity at Dragon Capital
What is needed to boost investment in Ukraine?
Project-based financing, accessible investment insurance, and transparent rules of the game.
A shift from manual government management to efficient institutions and policies, ensuring consistency and continuity in reforms.
Building institutional partnerships between the state and the business sector.
Talent shortage: a key challenge
“Success comes not to those who simply pay more, but to those who create value and vision. It is not individuals who win, but teams,”
emphasized Olha Batova.
New industrialization as a foundation for the future
The new wave of industrial development is not about restoring the past but about building a modern economy driven by automation, digitalization, and human-centered principles. It focuses on replacing critical imports with domestic production and shifting from raw material exports to exporting high-value-added products.
Looking ahead
Today, Ukraine is one of the few markets where investors can achieve such high returns. After the war ends and with EU accession, Ukraine will grow and rebuild at an extraordinary pace.
“As always, those who invest during times of crisis, who continue to develop and seize opportunities, will gain the most. Investing in Ukraine should not wait for victory — it should happen now,”
emphasized Olha Batova.
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!