Ukraine currently produces only 30% of the garlic it consumes, with the remainder covered by imports. However, the country could increase its self-sufficiency with systematic development of the sector and investment in proper storage facilities.
According to Julianna Mussa, President of the Ukrainian Garlic Producers Association and representative of the Dutch garlic and onion company Gourmet, garlic cultivation in Ukraine has significantly declined over the past three years. The loss of agricultural land in occupied regions such as Zaporizhzhia and Kherson has contributed to this decline, reducing the total garlic cultivation area to around 1,000–1,500 hectares. However, the exact figures are difficult to determine, as many small and family-run farms grow garlic informally without official registration.
Mussa highlights that a major issue for the industry remains the lack of proper storage facilities, which are essential for maintaining garlic quality and extending its marketability. Additionally, many farmers are abandoning garlic production due to financial losses, lack of expertise, and difficulty finding buyers for their products.
Source: agroportal.ua