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Ukraine wants foreign investors to buy its state assets. So far, they’re not biting

But it's facing a problem. Low prices aren’t enough to attract the foreign investors Ukraine wants most, particularly those from Europe. As Ukraine positions itself as an…

Ukraine wants foreign investors to buy its state assets. So far, they’re not biting

Ukraine's government aims to sell thousands of state-owned assets, many of which are unprofitable or in poor condition. However, foreign investors, particularly from Europe, have not been eager to participate in these auctions. Dmytro Natalukha, chairman of the State Property Fund, explains that the process is simple and secure, but poor government communication about viable projects and ongoing war risks are major obstacles.

Additionally, staff shortages at the fund, particularly in English-speaking roles, present challenges. Despite offers ranging from an ammonia plant in Odesa to a bakery in Chernivtsi, many assets require substantial restructuring and additional investment. The Ukrainian government has been criticized for poor advertising of projects to foreign investors.

However, there is optimism that the U.S. Development Finance Corporation's partnership with the World Bank to expand political risk insurance for American firms investing in Ukraine could encourage more interest from foreign investors.

Written by urgent.news from Kyiv Independent's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

Read the original at kyivindependent.com →

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