Foreign Entrepreneurs in Ukraine: Why Their Number Decreased by 10% in 2025.

Decline in the Number of Foreign Entrepreneurs in Ukraine

According to inkorr.com: In 2025, Ukraine registered 1,648 foreign entrepreneurs, which is 10% less than in the previous year. Non-residents account for only 0.7% of the total number of new entrepreneurs this year. At the same time, 1,158 foreign entrepreneurs suspended their activities, resulting in a net increase of 490 non-resident entrepreneurs. This indicates that only 0.5% of those closing their businesses are foreigners.

Unlike citizen entrepreneurs, more foreign entrepreneurs are starting businesses: 69% are men compared to 31% women entrepreneurs.

Interestingly, non-residents demonstrate some stability in their activities, with a median duration of 3.1 years. For example, one entrepreneur with Russian citizenship has worked for 30 years, which is a record. In comparison, Ukrainian entrepreneurs operate on average for 2.5 years.

The practice of registering as entrepreneurs is entirely legal and allows people with the right to reside in Ukraine to run a legal business and pay taxes. In 2025, the largest number of new entrepreneurs came from Azerbaijan, Russia, Uzbekistan, Moldova, and Armenia. Foreigners most often close their businesses in retail, computer programming, and catering.

The number of foreign entrepreneurs in Ukraine has slightly decreased compared to last year, but they demonstrate significant resilience in their activities. Men dominate this category, and it is also important to note the countries of origin of new foreign entrepreneurs and the sectors where they most often close their businesses.

This data may indicate changes in the economic environment and the adaptation of foreign entrepreneurs to the conditions dictated by the Ukrainian market. The situation deserves attention from the government and economists, as foreign investment can play an important role in the recovery and development of the Ukrainian economy.