Imports are growing, exports are declining: what is happening to the potato market?
28 January 20:37
In 2025, Ukraine sharply increased potato imports. According to the State Customs Service, 138,400 tons of potatoes were imported into the country from January to December , which is 5.3 times more than in 2024, Interfax-Ukraine reports, as quoted by Komersant.
In monetary terms, imports also increased almost fivefold, to $74.8 million, compared to $15.2 million a year earlier.
Who supplied potatoes to Ukraine
The main suppliers of potatoes in 2025 were:
- Poland — 38.2% of imports,
- Egypt — 14.1%,
- TheNetherlands — 10.8%.
Thus, Ukraine received more than half of its imported potatoes from EU countries, with another significant share coming from North Africa.
Exports declined but became more expensive
Against the backdrop of growing imports, potato exports from Ukraine decreased. In 2025, 2.38 thousand tons were shipped abroad, which is 11.2% less than in 2024.
At the same time, in monetary terms, exports proved to be more profitable: revenue increased by 3.1% to $584 thousand, compared to $566 thousand a year earlier . This indicates an increase in the average export price.
Where Ukraine sold potatoes
The main buyers of Ukrainian potatoes remain neighboring and regional markets:
- Moldova — 60.2% of exports,
- Azerbaijan — 35.4%,
- Georgia — 1.2%.
What is behind the sharp increase in imports
The jump in potato imports occurred against the backdrop of challenges for domestic agricultural production, including the impact of the war, logistical constraints, reduced acreage in certain regions, and fluctuations in yields.
