Ukrainian consumers are facing difficulties in purchasing food products, in particular, basic goods necessary for normal nutrition, due to the rapid increase in prices. Despite the official inflation rates, which remain within acceptable limits, consumers are experiencing a real increase in the cost of products , which is becoming a significant burden on family budgets.
According to data from Picodi, the cost of a standard food basket, which includes bread, milk, eggs, rice, cheese, meat, vegetables and fruit, has increased by 22% in one year. This is significantly higher than the official inflation figures for the same period. Experts believe that this may be due to the redistribution of funds in family budgets due to the increase in utility bills.
According to Oksana Ruzhenkova, a World Bank expert, many consumers are forced to choose products in the lowest price category, and those who can afford it delay purchasing expensive products such as cheeses, butter, and sausages.
The situation regarding the supply of goods is also changing. For example, the number of Polish products on the shelves is decreasing, and domestic products are gradually replacing them. Experts also do not rule out the expansion of the range of “pseudo-products”, such as cheese products instead of cheese, spreads instead of butter, etc.
Forecasting trends for the near future, experts point to the possibility of a decrease in prices for some products, in particular sunflower oil, eggs, and sugar. However, the risk of an increase in prices for bread and bakery products remains high due to the shortage of food wheat on the domestic market.
As for vegetables and fruits, their prices can increase by 5-7% due to supply and demand, inflation , weather conditions and global trends. However, it is important to consider the quality of the products, as it can affect price dynamics.
Overall, consumer prices are forecast to rise moderately in the coming months. Amid rising food prices, consumers should be more careful when planning their family expenses and choose more economical alternatives to preserve their budget.
