Odessa Businesses Push Back Against Proposed Auction System for Street Kiosks on Prozorro.

Debate Heats Up Over New Rules for Temporary Structures in Odessa

According to Novyny.live: A contentious discussion is underway in Odessa regarding updated regulations for temporary commercial structures, drawing sharp criticism from the local business community. Entrepreneurs are particularly alarmed by a proposed mechanism that would auction off spots for这些小贩摊位 (MAFs) via the Prozorro electronic platform. Boris Emeldesh, head of the All-Ukrainian Professional Association of Entrepreneurs, warned that the new framework could deal a severe blow to small enterprises operating in the city.

“We see this as an unfair approach—it will effectively push small businesses out of our city,” said Boris Emeldesh.

At the same time, Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers has officially designated Odessa as a resort and recreation zone. This move is intended to spur business growth in the region, with the city budget expected to gain roughly 300 million hryvnias in additional annual revenue under the new rules. However, entrepreneurs argue that given the current economic climate, the priority should be creating favorable working conditions rather than adding bureaucratic hurdles.

“Right now, we should be making it easier for entrepreneurs to operate, not complicating the procedures,” said Karina Bozhynska-Ursaki.

Rise in Women-Led Businesses

Amid these regulatory shifts, noteworthy trends in entrepreneurship are emerging. In 2025, women took the helm of more than 12,700 new companies across Ukraine, with 851 of those businesses registered in the Odessa region alone. This surge in female-led ventures could play a pivotal role in strengthening the local economy.

Overall, the debate over Odessa’s temporary structure regulations continues to spark intense discussion among business representatives, who are urging officials to take their concerns into account.

The ongoing debate over Odessa’s temporary structure rules highlights the serious challenges entrepreneurs face amid changing legislation. Business owners fear the new auction system could shrink opportunities for small enterprises already strained by economic instability. Meanwhile, the city’s new resort-and-recreation designation may attract investment and boost tourism infrastructure. It remains unclear how officials will strike a balance between regulation and support for local businesses.