Ukraine increases sales of dairy products abroad
7 March 2024 10:19
In February, Ukrainian exporters increased the volume of dairy products supplies compared to January, taking advantage of rising prices for commodities on foreign markets. This is reported by the Association of Milk Producers, Kommersant Ukrainian reports 
In February, Ukraine exported 8.5 thousand tonnes of dairy products worth USD 16.6 million. Compared to January, natural export volumes increased by 22%, and cash revenue increased by 26%.
Since the beginning of the year, 15.13 thousand tonnes of dairy products have been exported, up 3% year-on-year. Export revenues for the first two months of 2024 amounted to almost UAH 29 million, which is 14% less than last year.
The main export categories in monetary terms were the following products:
- Milk and cream, condensed – 33%;
- Cheese – 23%;
- Ice cream – 13%;
- Butter – 12%.
According to analyst Giorgi Kukhaleishvili, in February, Ukrainian companies increased exports of dairy products, in particular cheese and butter, as prices for key commodities on the Global Dairy Trade rose for four consecutive sessions.
Also in February, Ukraine imported 3.94 thousand tonnes of dairy products, down 28% compared to January. Last month, Ukraine saw a decline in supplies of fermented milk products (-9%), whey (-66%), butter (-24%), cheese (-34%) and ice cream (-184%). Ukraine imported dairy products from the UK, EU member states, Switzerland, Norway, and New Zealand.
Since the beginning of 2024, Ukraine has imported 8.97 thsd tonnes of dairy products, up 9% year-on-year.
Logistical problems remain a constraint for Ukrainian exporters. In the context of the war with Russia, exporting products by sea remains a risk. Polish farmers continue to block the movement of goods at the state border, and the crisis in relations with the neighbouring country is growing.
