For the second consecutive year, Ukraine retains its status as the largest exporter of frozen raspberries in Europe, despite a challenging season due to poor harvests. This information was disclosed by Taras Bashtannyk, president of the Ukrainian Fruit and Vegetable Association.
This is reported by Business • Media
Record Prices and Harvest Losses
This year, due to unfavorable weather conditions, farmers suffered significant losses: the harvest of garden strawberries decreased by 40–50%, and raspberries by 20–30%. Blueberry losses varied by variety, ranging from 15% to 90%. However, as the expert notes, prices for all berries have noticeably increased. For example, blueberries were sold at $4 per kilogram, while last year the price was $2.5. Overall, the average price for raspberries this year was approximately 20% higher than in the previous season.
“Therefore, the situation with berries this year is as follows: there are losses, but prices are correspondingly higher,” added Bashtannyk.
Export Dynamics and Prospects
According to Taras Bashtannyk, Ukraine is actively developing raspberry exports, staying ahead of Poland and Serbia. Final data on export volumes is still being clarified, but it is already clear that the country maintains its leadership in the European frozen raspberry market. According to estimates, 95% of the raspberries grown in Ukraine are currently processed, and almost all of this volume is exported. For blueberries, this figure does not exceed 5%, while the rest is sold fresh, and garden strawberries are processed at a rate of 25–30%.
The expert predicts further growth in Ukraine’s presence in the European market for both fresh and processed berries by 2026.