A Window of Opportunity Is Opening for Ukrainian Raspberries Due to Problems Faced by EU Competitors

According to the Ukrainian Berry Growers Association, this could create additional opportunities for Ukrainian products on the European market for fresh and frozen berries.

According to analysts, the average daily temperature in Ukraine in July 2026 was 20.7°C, which was 2.4°C lower than in July last year. Precipitation reached 69 mm, up 13% year-on-year.

«Moderate temperatures and sufficient moisture supported the fruit filling and ripening of raspberries, blueberries and late-season strawberries, while also reducing the need for irrigation. At the same time, local downpours increased the risks of berry cracking and the development of grey mould,» the association said.

At the same time, in Poland, particularly in Lublin Voivodeship, producers report uneven plantation conditions following spring frosts. Other problems include a shortage of seasonal workers and low purchase prices at the height of the season. This may restrain investment in new plantations and weaken the country’s position in the frozen berry market.

In Serbia, the 2026 raspberry harvest is expected to be 20–30% below the average level due to the effects of last year’s drought. Purchase prices are around €3.85–4 per kilogram, although some processors are paying producers in instalments.

«The shortage of Serbian raspberries and the uneven condition of Polish raspberry plantations are creating a favourable price window for Ukrainian frozen berry exports in the 2026/27 season,» experts forecast.