Asymmetry in Ukrainian-Polish Economic Relations and Ways of Solving Contradictions

Abstract

Attention is focused on topical issues of the development of mutually beneficial trade and economic relations between Ukraine and the Republic of Poland, which is one of the main strategic partners of Ukraine on the way to European and Euro-Atlantic integration. The article describes radical changes in the structure and incentives of economic relations in two neighbouring countries using the recommendations of the Washington Consensus, based on the principles of macroeconomic discipline, market economy and openness to the outside world. A retrospective analysis of the development of bilateral trade relations is carried out, indicating the existence of deep historical traditions, established close economic ties between countries. A significant revival of bilateral trade was noted after the entry into force in full of the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU, including the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area. The problems of the development of two economic systems are analysed from the standpoint of the theory of asymmetry, which should be understood as the phenomenon of increasing differences in the dynamics of changes in the structure of trade, other indicators of socio-economic development caused by  the multidirectional influence of a set of internal and external factors. Disproportions in bilateral trade and economic relations have been investigated both in spatial and temporal terms. The problem of the existence of disagreements in statistical data from the Ukrainian and Polish sides, the reasons for their occurrence are considered. The need to strengthen the trend of replacing mainly raw materials of Ukrainian exports with high-tech, with a greater share of processing, added value, which is possible in the context of cardinal changes in the sectoral structure of the national economy, was confirmed. Recommendations are proposed for improving the plan of the Ukrainian-Polish strategic partnership, establishing an effective mechanism of responsibility for its implementation, which should contribute to the economic rapprochement of the two countries and improve the quality of life of the population.