This year's abnormal heat has drastically reduced raspberry yields in Ukraine, notes Taras Bashtannyk, President of the Ukrainian Fruit and Veg Association. Although the harvest is lower compared to last year, prices have surged significantly. Currently, first-grade raspberries are priced at EUR 1.7, up from EUR 0.8 last year.
Power issues, exacerbated by missile strikes, have also impacted processing enterprises. Although production costs have increased, higher prices on European markets partially offset these expenses. Some enterprises are even considering exporting frozen berries to Europe for storage due to power interruptions.
This year's black currant harvest in Ukraine has also shown positive results, although the areas dedicated to it remain limited. High black currant prices are currently situational and may lead to an expansion of growing areas in the future, but this could result in lower prices in a few years.
The blueberry season in Ukraine ended unusually early due to the early spring. This year's yield is 20-25% lower compared to last year, but new plantations have contributed to a substantial total harvest. High demand for blueberry exports also supports stable market prices.
Source: seeds.org.ua