On July 1, 2025, the conference “De-shadowing of Retail and Services: New Trends” was held at the “Summit” Business Center. The event was organized by the Ukrainian Business Council and brought together representatives of government, businesses, and industry experts.

The conference served as a platform for discussing new regulatory approaches, current challenges, and opportunities for fostering transparency in the retail and service sectors under martial law conditions.

A keynote speech was delivered by Tetyana Dumenkova, representing the Association of Fuel and Energy Business (APEB), which unites small and medium-sized enterprises in the sector. In her remarks, she highlighted both the progress achieved in combating the shadow economy and the emerging risks posed by recent legislative changes.

In particular, she addressed the advance corporate income tax model introduced by Law No. 4015-IX, which, starting from December 1, 2024, requires all licensed fuel stations to pay a fixed monthly advance of UAH 30,000 to 60,000 — regardless of business size, profitability, or location, including those operating in frontline regions.

“We are receiving numerous appeals from entrepreneurs who are either shutting down operations or being forced into the shadow economy. At the same time, inspections are primarily targeting legal market players. This creates unequal conditions and risks undermining de-shadowing efforts,” — stated Tetyana Dumenkova.

Conference participants also emphasized the need for a differentiated approach to taxation and regulation, one that accounts for the specific nature of small businesses, especially those with limited profitability, remote locations, or operations in conflict zones.

The Association of Fuel and Energy Business called for constructive dialogue with government authorities to develop balanced solutions that maintain fiscal stability while supporting small and medium-sized enterprises — the backbone of the economy and local communities.