Business expectations from the work of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine and priorities in its activities were discussed during a meeting of the ESBU management with representatives of the European Business Association. They also identified areas of cooperation on overcoming the shadow economy.

The Bureau plans to abandon the "punitive model" of work and focus on preventive measures to prevent future offenses. This will be implemented by developing the Bureau's analytical function, applying a risk-based approach and eliminating legislative gaps that lead to shadowing. It also identified 5 main areas in which the Bureau works: budget, customs, tax, monetary and investment.

"Destroying the algorithms and schemes of the shadow market is one of the prerequisites for attracting investment to Ukraine's economy. Our companies are also interested in this. And here I see prospects for joint work with business in particular on the development of legislative initiatives. Another task of the Bureau is to minimize interference in business operations. We do this by connecting to databases and automating processes. At the same time it is important for us that business understands the framework within which it must work. We want not only to hear the business but also for the business to hear us" emphasized Eduard Fedorov, acting director of the ESBU.

As the participants of the meeting noted, honest businesses are interested in building an analytical body that not only stops economic crimes but also comprehensively destroys illegal schemes and prevents them. Competitive business conditions, investment activity and the development of the Ukrainian economy depend on the effective work of the Bureau.

They also agreed that the dialog with business should be ongoing and such meetings should be regular.