This year, the Ukrainian vegetable market has been significantly affected by record potato harvests in Europe, particularly in Germany and Poland. Due to surplus production, European farmers are actively exporting potatoes, much of which is entering the Ukrainian market at prices around 6 UAH per kilogram. While this means lower prices for consumers, it creates serious challenges for domestic producers.
In 2025, Germany harvested 13.4 million tons of potatoes, the highest yield in the last quarter-century. Poland has seen a similar trend, with increased potato acreage and expanded production aimed at export markets.
The main problem is the lack of competitiveness of Ukrainian growers compared to European producers, who benefit from subsidies and VAT refunds for exports. Ukrainian farmers do not enjoy such advantages and are forced to lower their selling prices, making their situation precarious. Insufficient storage infrastructure and the lack of export certificates also limit Ukraine's export potential.
Experts note that this situation could lead to reduced potato planting in Ukraine and unstable pricing in the future. Forecasts of prices soaring to 50 UAH per kilogram seem unlikely, given large European harvests.
As a result, Ukrainian farmers face the decision to invest in technology and infrastructure or gradually exit the market. To stabilize the industry, state support, development of modern storage facilities, assistance with exports, and a thoughtful agricultural strategy are required.
