**Ukraine Reforms Tracker: Issue 3**
The Ukrainian government is making progress on its reforms, but experts warn that some draft laws could jeopardize the country’s international commitments.
**New Customs Head to be Selected**
The Foreign Ministry has asked international partners to submit candidates for a new head of the State Customs Service. The selection commission will consist of three representatives from the Finance Ministry and three from international partners. This is part of Ukraine’s agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
**Tax Hike Signed into Law**
President Volodymyr Zelensky has signed a draft law that amends the tax code and increases taxes. The law is expected to generate an additional 8 billion hryvnias ($191 million) in budget revenue this year, and 141 billion hryvnias ($3.4 billion) next year.
**New Members for Ukrenergo Supervisory Board**
The Cabinet of Ministers has appointed four new independent members to the supervisory board of Ukrenergo, Ukraine’s state-owned power transmission system operator. This meets a structural benchmark under the IMF memorandum.
**State Ownership Policy Approved**
The Cabinet has approved a state ownership policy that defines the role of the state in managing state-owned enterprises (SOEs). This fulfills another requirement under Ukraine’s financial assistance programs with the IMF and the European Union.
**Experts Warn of Draft Laws Jeopardizing International Commitments**
Next week, parliament will consider draft law #12206-2, which seeks to establish a High Administrative Court. However, anti-corruption experts have raised concerns that the draft law does not ensure international standards are met. Additionally, the proposed amendment to the Criminal Procedural Code falls short of addressing time limits for pre-trial investigations.
**Other Key Economic Issues**
The Cabinet has appointed new members to the ESBU Civil Oversight Council, and the tax committee has approved a draft law for OECD membership. The adoption of this bill is a requirement for Ukraine’s membership in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).