Apple Harvest in Ukraine Higher Than Last Year: How Will This Affect Prices?

This was stated by Taras Bashtannyk, President of the Ukrainian Fruit and Vegetable Association (UPOA), in an interview with SEEDS.

«This year’s harvest is indeed larger. It is still difficult to say by what percentage compared with the previous year, as statistics, as we know, have not been collected for a long time. However, surveys of producers and our partners across Ukraine are still ongoing. This year’s harvest is larger — that is certain,» he said.

He added that, as a result of this and other factors, prices for table apples (not processing apples) are currently very low, at UAH 10–15/kg. However, they are much more expensive in supermarkets, with prices reaching UAH 40/kg.

«There are several reasons for the low prices: a larger harvest, logistical problems with exports and damaged shopping centres. As a result, demand and orders from retail chains have declined. In addition, producers are reluctant to store their harvest for long because something could strike at any time. There could also be problems with the electricity supply, and apples need to be stored. Therefore, naturally, those who can sell their apples sooner want to do so as quickly as possible,» Taras Bashtannyk explained.

Consumers are not seeing lower prices because overhead costs, which are added to the price of apples between the orchard and the shop, have increased significantly.

«For example, many retailers now ask suppliers to deliver products separately to individual retail outlets. But this also significantly increases the price,» the expert explained.

He also noted that export opportunities exist, but there is no strong potential for growth compared with previous years.

«Other countries also have apple harvests, and it is not so easy for us to compete,» Taras Bashtannyk concluded.