Ukrainian agriculture is under threat: what to do with the lost 20.5% of land
19 March 17:47
Ukraine has lost a significant part of its agricultural land due to the full-scale war, which has far-reaching consequences for the national economy, food security and global markets. This was stated by the Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food Vitaliy Koval, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
According to official data, the country has lost 20.5% of its agricultural land, which was previously actively used for growing grain, industrial and fodder crops. This not only significantly reduced domestic production, but also affected Ukraine’s export capabilities, which before the war was one of the largest food suppliers in the world.
Reasons for the loss of agricultural land
Russia’s military aggression has resulted in a significant portion of fertile land being occupied. The fighting has caused widespread destruction, and intense artillery shelling, air strikes and the use of explosive devices have made many areas unsuitable for agriculture. In addition, large areas of arable land have been mined or contaminated with explosive remnants of war.
According to the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, about 2 million hectares of fertile soil remain unsafe for cultivation due to mines. The demining process is ongoing, but its pace does not yet allow for the rapid return of these lands to economic use. As of early 2025, only 500,000 hectares had been cleared of mines.
Another factor that contributed to the losses in agriculture was the destruction or damage to critical infrastructure necessary for running an agricultural business. Destroyed elevators, warehouses, transportation hubs, and logistics corridors make it difficult to deliver fertilizers, fuel, machinery, seeds, and other materials needed for cultivation and harvesting.
Impact on yields and the economy
The significant reduction in cultivated areas has affected the overall level of agricultural production. In 2021, Ukraine harvested a record 106 million tons of grain and industrial crops. However, in 2024, this figure dropped to 77 million tons, indicating a decline in agricultural productivity by more than 25%.
The decline in production had a negative impact on Ukraine’s export potential. Prior to the full-scale invasion, the country was one of the key exporters of grain and oilseeds to the global market. However, due to the hostilities and the blocking of ports, especially on the Black Sea, the supply capacity has been significantly limited. Experts estimate that the decline in Ukrainian grain exports has led to an increase in global food prices, which has caused inflation in countries that depend on Ukrainian agricultural products.
Government measures to restore the agricultural sector
The Ukrainian government is taking comprehensive measures to overcome the consequences of the war and gradually restore the agricultural sector. The state budget for 2025 allocates UAH 1 billion to finance programs for humanitarian demining of agricultural land. It is expected that at least 65,000 hectares will be cleared this year, which will expand the area for growing major crops.
In addition, Ukraine is actively cooperating with international partners to attract foreign investment in the restoration of the agricultural sector. The United Nations, the European Union and a number of international financial organizations provide financial and technical support to modernize the agricultural sector and restore damaged infrastructure.
Despite all the difficulties, Ukraine continues to increase its export potential. In 2024, exports of agricultural products to the EU reached $25 billion, which indicates high demand for Ukrainian products even in difficult conditions. At the same time, due to the introduction of the CBAM carbon tax, Ukrainian producers are facing new economic challenges that may make it more difficult to enter European markets in the future.
Possible risks and challenges: what experts say
Despite all efforts, the future of Ukrainian agriculture remains uncertain. The main risks include:
- continued hostilities and the risk of new infrastructure damage;
- shortage of labor in the agricultural sector due to mass migration and mobilization;
- financial difficulties due to high lending rates and destruction of agricultural companies’ assets;
- environmental problems related to land pollution and loss of fertile soil due to military operations.
Experts emphasize that in order to restore Ukraine’s agricultural potential, it is necessary not only to regain control over the lost territories, but also to create favorable conditions for attracting investors and developing the agricultural sector.
