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Business climate in Ukraine: What international companies need to know | Interview

January 26, 2026
Accace - Business climate in Ukraine

The business climate in Ukraine looks very different today than it did just a few years ago. It has been tested, reshaped and pushed to its limits, but it has not come to a standstill. Companies are still operating, making decisions and planning what comes next, often under conditions few European markets have ever faced.

January 2026 marks 19 years since Accace started operating in Ukraine. Over that time, our teams have supported businesses through periods of growth, structural change and, more recently, serious disruption. What has stayed consistent is our role. We help companies remain operational, compliant and confident, even when the environment is unpredictable.

Despite the ongoing war, Ukraine remains an active market with a strong focus on resilience, recovery and international cooperation. For investors thinking long term, the question is no longer whether the market exists, but how to enter it responsibly, build trust locally and prepare for future expansion.

At Accace Ukraine, this work is carried out by people who deal with these realities every day. By adjusting how we operate, strengthening local know-how and responding quickly to legal and regulatory changes, our teams continue to deliver the level of service clients expect. Below, several colleagues share their perspective on what it takes to keep businesses running in Ukraine today and what they see ahead.


How would you describe the current business climate in Ukraine for international companies?

Anna Magdich, Managing Director at Accace Ukraine: “It is a demanding environment, there is no point pretending otherwise. Security concerns, infrastructure limitations and uncertainty are part of everyday reality and planning. At the same time, the market is far from frozen. We see activity and growth in sectors like IT, renewable energy and defence-related technologies, supported by strong local expertise and competitive cost levels.

The companies that do well here are realistic. They do not ignore the risks, but they also do not treat them as unmanageable. With the right setup, local insight and experienced partners on the ground, it is possible to operate effectively, even under difficult conditions.”

What message would you give to businesses considering Ukraine as an investment destination?

Anna Magdich, Managing Director at Accace Ukraine: “Ukraine is moving forward, especially now. A lot of changes are happening beneath the surface. There is modernisation, new ways of working, quick adaptability and preparation for what comes after the war. Companies entering the market today tend to think in terms of resilience and long-term value, not quick wins.

They benefit from a highly skilled workforce and competitive operating costs. With proper local guidance, setting up and running operations can be done safely and efficiently. Those who take the step now are likely to be in a strong position when the next phase of growth begins.”

What are the most common concerns from investors or clients today, and how do you address them?

Artem Narodenko, Head of Advisory at Accace Ukraine: “The questions we hear are very concrete. Will operations stay stable? What happens if regulations change suddenly? How quickly can a company react if circumstances shift?

We try to keep discussions practical. Instead of talking about risk in abstract terms, we look at how a client actually operates and what scenarios they might realistically face. On the regulatory side, we closely follow legislative developments and translate them into clear, business-relevant guidance. That way, clients can make decisions calmly, rather than reacting under pressure.”

What practical steps can companies take to start or continue operations in Ukraine?

Artem Narodenko, Head of Advisory at Accace Ukraine: “One of the first decisions is choosing the right operating model. Not every business needs to establish a full legal entity from day one. Many start with more flexible solutions, such as a representative office, which allows them to operate without overcommitting.

From the beginning, it is also important to build continuity into operations. That means digital processes, clear approval structures and backup arrangements, so key tasks do not depend on a single person or location. Advisors who understand how things work in practice, not just on paper, can make a real difference, especially when quick reactions are needed.”

How do you keep core processes on schedule under current conditions?

Alona Honcharuk, Senior Payroll Accountant at Accace Ukraine: “Payroll does not allow for delays, so we assume disruption is possible and plan around it. We rely on cloud-based systems and secure remote access to keep work moving even if connectivity or infrastructure issues arise.

We collect payroll data earlier than usual, assign backup approvers and prepare alternative payment options in advance. Regular communication within the team is key. Daily check-ins help us spot potential issues early and resolve them before deadlines are affected. That way, employees are paid accurately and on time, and compliance is maintained.”

What safeguards protect data and compliance for clients?

Yuliia Bibikova, HR Outsourcing Specialist at Accace Ukraine: “Data protection is a core part of our HR services. We work in full compliance with Ukrainian legislation, including the Law of Ukraine ‘On the Protection of Personal Data,’ which sets clear rules for how personal data must be processed and safeguarded.

We use secure channels for data exchange and provide clients with access to an online information-sharing platform where permissions can be tailored to specific users. Our internal data protection policies are aligned with client requirements, and in daily work we apply practical measures such as password-protected files, confidential email settings and communication only through verified client contacts.”

How do you support your teammates while ensuring service continuity?

Halyna Hrytsenko, Senior Accountant at Accace Ukraine: “In our current reality, procedures alone are not enough. You need trust and teamwork. Power outages or sudden disruptions can happen, so no process depends on one person only.

Responsibilities are clearly defined, but key tasks are always cross-covered so work can be reassigned quickly if needed. At the same time, we focus on the human side. Staying connected, communicating openly and supporting colleagues when things get difficult helps us stay resilient as a team and continue delivering reliable service to our clients.”

Despite the current situation, Ukraine remains a market with real potential for companies willing to invest thoughtfully and build long-term partnerships. With 19 years of experience in the market, our team provides end-to-end support, from payroll and HR administration to accounting, tax, legal and advisory services, so businesses can operate with confidence in a demanding environment.

If you would like to discuss your plans or need local expertise, feel free to get in touch.

Halyna Hrytsenko
Senior Accountant | Accace Ukraine
Get in touch with us
Artem Narodenko
Head of Advisory | Accace Ukraine
Book a meeting with Artem
Yuliia Bibikova
HR Specialist | Accace Ukraine
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Alona Honcharuk
Senior Payroll Accountant | Accace Ukraine
Get in touch with us
Anna Magdich
Managing Director | Accace Ukraine
Book a meeting with Anna
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