Ukrainians have faced a sharp increase in the price of vegetables this year, in particular potatoes, which are one of the most popular products. Compared to last year, prices have doubled, and there are no prerequisites for a decrease yet.
Potatoes: causes and consequences of price increases
EastFruit Weekly Ukraine project coordinator Oleksandr Khorev explained that the main cause of the crisis is the July drought, which significantly affected the harvest.
- Yield: even in professional farms, losses are over 50%.
- Prices: Currently, potatoes cost 22-30 hryvnias per kilogram, depending on the variety, which is twice as much as last year (11-15 hryvnias).
Khorev emphasizes that even imports have not helped stabilize the market, and sellers continue to keep prices high.
Carrots: after potatoes
Carrots were also affected by weather conditions, and the price increased by 82%.
- Average price: 18-25 hryvnias per kilogram.
Ukrainian farmers have abandoned growing cucumbers in the autumn-winter period for economic reasons, so the market is filled with Turkish products.
- Prices: 80-110 hryvnias per kilogram, which is 25-26% more than last year.
The following prices also rose on the market:
- Cabbage and onion.
- Eggplants: Imported products have caused prices to double.
Regarding fruit, price increases are observed due to seasonal demand:
- Oranges: 80-120 hryvnia (+15-20%).
- Mandarins: 90-120 hryvnias.
- Clementines: 50-60 hryvnias.
Experts predict that the situation with vegetable prices will remain tense, and Ukrainians will be forced to adapt to new market conditions.
