In January-March 2008, the trade between Ukraine and Belarus  was 98% up over the same period last year to $1.2 billion, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Belarus to Ukraine Valentin Velichko told.

In Q1 this year, Belarusian exports to Ukraine were 2.4 times up to $757.4 million. Imports were 49.8% up to $449.2 million Belarus had a surplus of $308.2 million.

Belarus’ major exports to Ukraine are tractors, trucks, potash fertilisers, combine harvesters, ferrous metals, polymers, tyres, fridges, timber products, hosiery, cord fabrics, gas stoves, sugar, fish and other products. These goods account for 84% of total exports.

Ukraine ranks third after Russia and the Netherlands in the list of Belarus’ major trade partners.

According to the Belarusian diplomat, Ukraine’s accession to the WTO scheduled for May 16 will not become an obstacle for further trade and economic cooperation with Belarus. According to projections, the trade between Belarus and Ukraine can reach $4 billion in 2008.