Despite this spring's unusual weather patterns, Ukraine's berry production is expected to meet both domestic and export demands. However, market prices could be unpredictable, as reported by EastFruit.
In an interview with SEEDS, Taras Bashtannik, President of UHA (Ukrainian Horticultural Association), elaborated on the factors significantly influencing Ukrainian berry pricing.
This year, the abnormal spring weather has caused significant damage to Ukrainian berry farms. Some believe that this year's berry yield will only suffice for domestic consumption, and exports are now in question. What is your opinion on this matter?
In fact, this information does not reflect reality. Indeed, there have been losses in blueberry crops, averaging 10-15% across Ukraine. But that's the maximum. Ukrainian blueberries will be available, and the losses will not affect exports. I believe that the export share will even increase, while domestic consumption may slow down slightly. This is influenced by the war and many other factors.
As for the price, it's difficult to say. It seems to me that the price will be at last year's level. Perhaps inflation will adjust the prices somewhat, and blueberries may be more expensive by 5-7, even 10%, but no more.
What can we expect for raspberry prices this year? Some experts predict that this berry could increase in price to 50-70 UAH/kg (1.25-1.75 USD/kg), particularly for high-quality raspberries intended for freezing.
I fully agree with this forecast. Although the wholesale price may not reach 70 UAH (1.75 USD/kg), it could certainly hit 60-65 UAH/kg (USD 1.50-1.62/kg).
There is a demand for raspberries, and I believe it will continue, with prices likely to be 35-40% higher than last year, as they were exceptionally low then.
It's difficult to predict the international demand at this point, as the Polish autumn raspberry harvest is still some time away. Regarding the Serbs, they can never be trusted. They always claim at the start of the season that their crops have frozen, to inflate the price, only to later reveal that their harvest is fine – so I wouldn't rush to any conclusions.
We don't know what will happen in a month. Today, there are many factors that make forecasting an ungrateful task.
Are worker reservations from army mobilization among the factors affecting the berry industry in Ukraine? How has this impacted the operations of Ukrainian berry farms?
The profile of the berry industry doesn't quite fit the mold of the broader agricultural sector, where worker reservations from army mobilization might be more common. The issue of war has had a profoundly negative impact on Ukraine's berry industry.
Additionally, berry farmers are constantly facing logistical challenges – drivers are reluctant to travel or transport goods. This includes anything from materials, packaging, fertilizers, protective agents, to the harvest itself.
Source: east-fruit.com