The NBU explained the sharp rise in food prices: what will happen to prices next
13 February 06:41
At the beginning of 2026, prices for basic food products in Ukraine rose by more than 8%, which was the fastest acceleration of inflation in the last six months. Eggs, vegetables, and imported fruits rose in price the most. The National Bank of Ukraine explained the reasons for this price jump and predicted what Ukrainians can expect in the coming months. This was reported by the National Bank of Ukraine in a comment on the inflation situation in the country, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
Eggs were the main factor in the rise in food prices
According to the National Bank of Ukraine, eggs showed the highest price increase. The main reasons were seasonal factors and weather conditions.
In January 2025, warm weather contributed to an increase in egg production, which kept prices low. However, this year the situation has changed: cold weather has reduced productivity, leading to a significant reduction in supply and a sharp increase in prices.
Vegetables, fruits, and fish also became significantly more expensive
The price increase has also affected other product categories. In particular, vegetables have become more expensive due to a reduction in supply on the domestic market.
This is especially true for cucumbers and tomatoes. Tomatoes remain expensive because a significant portion of them are imported, which makes their cost dependent on exchange rates, logistics, and import costs.
Prices have also risen for:
- fish;
- citrus fruits;
- imported fruit.
These factors have further increased inflationary pressure on Ukrainians’ food basket.
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Meat and basic products are becoming more expensive at a slower pace
At the same time, the National Bank of Ukraine noted that not all products are experiencing rapid price increases. In particular, prices for meat and some grocery items are rising more slowly.
This applies to:
- pork;
- beef;
- chicken;
- flour.
Thanks to this, the overall increase in the cost of the food basket remains under control, although it is noticeable for consumers.
The consequences of Russia’s attacks on the energy sector are affecting prices
The National Bank of Ukraine emphasized that one of the key factors holding back a rapid decline in prices is the destruction of energy infrastructure as a result of Russian attacks.
Problems with energy supply affect:
- food production;
- storage and logistics;
- business costs.
This creates additional pressure on prices and complicates the rapid stabilization of inflation.
The NBU forecasts a slowdown in inflation, but without a sharp drop in prices
According to forecasts by the National Bank of Ukraine, the rate of price growth will gradually slow down in the coming months. This will be partly due to seasonal factors and an increase in food supply with the arrival of spring.
At the same time, a rapid decline in prices should not be expected due to:
- the consequences of the war;
- damage to the energy sector;
- high production costs.
The regulator has assured that it will use the necessary tools to control inflation and return prices to a stable level.
According to the State Statistics Service, inflation accelerated to 0.7% in January 2026, compared to 0.2% in December and 0.4% in November, confirming the upward trend in consumer prices.
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