Ukraine's hazelnut industry is seeing significant growth, with the country expected to produce 14,000-15,000 tons of hazelnuts by 2030. This projection comes from the Ukrainian Nut Association, which based the forecast on an analysis of existing orchards. Additionally, the domestic consumption of hazelnuts is expected to rise, with an anticipated demand of 7,000 tons of in-shell nuts. This growth is driven by changing dietary preferences in Ukraine as more people become familiar with hazelnuts, alongside the development of local processing and production.
Ukraine's hazelnut producers still have considerable potential for exporting the crop to Europe, where 68% of the world's hazelnut production is consumed. The country's advantageous geographical position is a key factor in boosting exports to major European markets, including Germany, the Netherlands, France, Spain, and Italy, according to the Ukrainian Nut Association President, Henadiy Yudin.
At present, Turkey, Georgia, and Azerbaijan are the leading hazelnut exporters, and they also supply hazelnuts to Ukraine (around 4,000 tons in-shell). However, the Ukrainian Nut Association is actively working to promote Ukrainian hazelnuts abroad, with the first successful exports already taking place.
In Ukraine, the area of industrial nut orchards currently spans 14,200 hectares, of which 7,900 hectares are dedicated to hazelnuts. These hazelnut orchards make up 95% of the newly planted industrial nut orchards in recent years. The first hazelnut orchards are already bearing fruit, and others will soon enter commercial production. Henadiy Yudin believes that industry professionals must collaborate to make this promising sector technologically advanced, aligned with modern market demands, and capable of competing globally.
The Ukrainian Nut Association is also working with the relevant ministry to update the State Register of Plant Varieties, which is crucial for expanding export opportunities for Ukrainian nuts, including hazelnuts. This update will also allow producers to introduce new, high-yielding varieties for commercial use.
Source: techhorticulture.com