Finnish business leaders explore opportunities in Ukraine

In January 2024, company executives from Terveystalo, Fimpec and Hannes Snellmann visited Kyiv, Ukraine along with the representatives from Miltton Group, including Kaius Niemi, Jarkko Konttinen, Christer Haglund and Tetiana Tregobchuk. Over three days the participants met with ministries and institutions, deputies of Kyiv Regional Administration, members of parliament, leading Ukrainian experts, as well as representatives of Ukrainian businesses in a joint event by the European Business Association and Miltton Ukraine.

Finnish companies aim to contribute to the reconstruction of Ukraine, exploring the country for partnerships and efficient collaborations, and exchange of best practices and experiences, with a commitment to be active players in Ukraine.

As Ukraine looks forward to reconstruction and emerging from active warfare, there is a significant need for new companies and investments that not only contribute to the economy but also participate as competent, steady and constructive players in society. The involvement of international partners and investors is instrumental in this process. Their expertise, resources, and vision can significantly accelerate Ukraine’s recovery and growth.

Topics discussed included the overall economic situation in Ukraine, key indicators, promising areas for investment and cooperation, the specifics of implementing investment projects in Ukraine, the legal framework regulating investment activities, and tools and opportunities for Finnish business and investors showing active interest in Ukraine’s reconstruction.

The visit included a tour of the largest Ukrainian industrial park, featuring interactions with residents and local officials. This industrial park showcases developed manufacturing, transport, and engineering infrastructure, active partnership, and investment programs. Within the industrial park, a sustainable industrial ecosystem is being built, which mitigates the negative impact on the environment, reduces resource consumption, and supports decent working conditions.

“Ukraine is not just a nation of resilience and bravery; it’s a thriving hub of opportunities, open for collaboration and investment. For investors, the country presents a range of possibilities. Our role at Miltton Ukraine is to help identify the best intersections for meaningful collaboration for both the Nordics and Ukraine. Being on the ground we know exactly what has to be done to improve the situation and help Ukraine to keep the fragile balance between war and life. We are happy to find true support and awareness from our Finnish colleagues. Together we can fight over this horrible war and build robust partnership and cooperation,” said Tetiana Tregobchuk, Head of Miltton Ukraine.

The intensive three-day visit laid the groundwork for discussions and negotiations, providing information for analysis and the formation of further action plans. Furthermore, Miltton Ukraine will continue to facilitate connections between the Nordics and Ukraine at both the business-to-government and business-to-business levels, fostering ongoing collaboration and support in these sectors.

Finland has been actively supporting Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale invasion and is one of the leading countries in supporting Ukraine. The country has provided Ukraine with assistance totalling 1.7 billion euros. The state consistently supports Ukraine on its path to European integration and territorial integrity.