The meeting of the Federation of Employers of Ukraine (FUE) with business representatives of the Zaporizhzhia region took place on April 9 at the territory of PrJSC “Zaporizhabraziv”. The event was attended by FUE Director General Ruslan Ilyichov, Chairman of the Customs Committee Anatoly Makarenko, Head of the Climate Platform Olga Kulyk, Chairman of the Zaporizhzhia Regional Federation of Employers Oleksandr Holovko, as well as heads of leading enterprises of the region.

The participants discussed key topics, including support for domestic manufacturers in wartime conditions, customs regulation, business protection from administrative pressure, the green transition, international donor cooperation, and participation in state programs to stimulate industry.

Igor Burak, Chairman of the Board of Zaporizhzhia Abrasive Plant, emphasized:

“It is a great honor for our company to welcome our partners from the Federation. We have a long-standing and fruitful cooperation with the FEU, and we highly value their support – whether it’s in dealing with government agencies, resolving issues around conscription deferment, importing raw materials, or overcoming trade barriers.”

Special attention was paid to the green transition and upcoming regulatory changes related to the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), set to take effect in 2026. This is particularly relevant for export-oriented companies such as Zaporizhzhia Abrasive Plant.

“We’re already receiving CO2 questionnaires from our European partners. This is a new reality that we must prepare for. We also plan to introduce similar surveys for our own suppliers,” said Igor Burak. “Modernization in wartime is a challenge, but a necessary one. And the Federation’s support in this area is invaluable.”

Ruslan Illiсhov presented key FEU initiatives, including the “Industrial Ramstein” program, which aims to help war-affected businesses obtain essential equipment with financial support from donors; and participation in the “Made in Ukraine” campaign, as well as renewed compensation programs for companies purchasing Ukrainian-made equipment.

Zaporizhzhia Abrasive Plant expressed readiness for continued cooperation with the Federation and encouraged other businesses in the region to join efforts.

“We were glad to shake hands, show our production, and once again confirm that ‘Stronger Together’ is not just a slogan — it’s an effective principle that delivers results,” Igor Burak concluded.