Major Tax Evasion and Black Market Export Scheme Uncovered at Ukrainian Port Terminal

The Bureau of Economic Security of Ukraine (BES) has initiated a significant investigation into alleged tax evasion and illegal export operations at the Olimpex terminal in the Port of Odesa. The probe centers on Attollo Granum LLC, a subsidiary of Sunolta Group, which is formally owned by Serhii Fedorov and Tetyana Kovalenko. This investigation has far-reaching implications for Ukraine's economic security and international trade relations.

According to the BES, Attollo Granum has allegedly evaded approximately 30 million UAH in taxes during the 2023-2024 tax year alone. The company is accused of deliberately understating its tax base and transferring unaccounted profits to international bank accounts before funneling them back into Ukraine through illegal cash dispensing points. This sophisticated financial maneuver not only deprives the Ukrainian government of substantial tax revenue but also raises concerns about money laundering and financial integrity in the region.

The investigation has uncovered links between the operations at the Olimpex terminal and Vadym Alperin, a known sanctioned smuggler. The BES alleges that Attollo Granum, while ostensibly owned by Sunolta, is actually a front for operations controlled by Sergiy Groza and Volodymyr Naumenko. These individuals were recently sentenced to 21 months in prison by the English High Court for contempt of court, adding an international dimension to the case.

Of particular concern is the alleged involvement of Agiros LLC, an entity linked to Alperin, which reportedly used the Olimpex terminal facilities for the storage, transshipment, and export of 'black' grain. This connection to sanctioned entities and illicit trade activities could have serious repercussions for Ukraine's standing in international trade and its efforts to combat corruption.

The scale and complexity of the alleged scheme highlight the challenges facing Ukrainian authorities in their efforts to enforce tax laws and prevent illicit trade. The involvement of multiple companies, individuals, and even a Russian citizen, Mikhail Ipatov, underscores the intricate nature of cross-border financial crimes and the need for robust international cooperation in combating such activities.

As the investigation unfolds, its outcomes could have significant implications for Ukraine's business environment, particularly in the crucial port and logistics sectors. The case also serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in corporate governance and financial transparency in emerging markets, which could impact foreign investment and economic development strategies in the region.