A scandal is brewing in Poland over fruits from Ukraine. Many companies have filled their refrigeration chambers with Ukrainian produce. The president of the Association of Polish Fruit Producers, Miroslaw Malinski, is concerned that it is no longer economically viable for Polish businesses to purchase this year's fruits from Poland. They demand immediate information on the number of frozen products, juices, and other fruit products that Ukraine has exported to Poland. The statement includes a demand to strengthen control activities and review international agreements that allowed the uncontrolled import of agricultural products from Ukraine.
Malinski expressed concern about the quality and safety of Ukrainian fruits and products for consumers. They also demand tightening control over residue testing for protective substances, heavy metals, and other substances that do not meet Polish and EU standards.
Last year, Poland imported 24,000 tons of frozen raspberries from Ukraine. At the end of January of this year, it was reported that over 60% of all frozen raspberries produced in Ukraine were exported to Poland. Entrepreneurs say that buying frozen products from Ukraine is much cheaper, which puts Polish fruit producers at risk.
Miroslaw Malinski remarks that the first crisis will undoubtedly affect fruit and berry producers. Also, there is a high probability that the situation in the apple market will not be much better. He is calling for immediate action.
source: ukrayina.pl