Ukrainian peaches almost disappeared from the shelves: imports dominate due to spring frosts
29 July 2025 16:28
Domestic stone fruits are practically absent in Ukrainian stores this season due to the catastrophic spring frosts. In particular, this year Ukrainians will not be able to enjoy domestic peaches. Dmytro Ostapenko, director of Green Technology Ltd, told EastFruit in an interview, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
“This year, Ukrainians will hardly see domestic peaches on the shelves. More than 90% of the fruit will be imported. This is the reality,”
– Ostapenko said.
According to him, the current crisis has revealed systemic shortcomings in the industry: ineffective protection of orchards, lack of government support and slow implementation of innovative technologies.
The paradox is that Ukraine’s climate is ideal for growing high-quality peaches and nectarines that could compete with products from Italy, Spain or Greece. However, the reality is different – imports dominate, and the reason is not just weather disasters.
Читайте нас у Telegram: головні новини коротко
“We could displace imports at least during the season – in July and September. But we must admit that we simply do not have the systemic support for this,”
– Ostapenko says.
The expert emphasizes that the loss of the harvest means a shortfall in foreign exchange earnings, job losses, and increased dependence of the domestic market on foreign suppliers. Ukrainian producers who survived such seasons do not have the resources to recover without external assistance.
“Import dependence in the fruit segment is not only an economic issue. It is a matter of food security,”
– emphasizes the head of Green Technology Ltd.
In Ostapenko’s opinion, in the face of climate change and geopolitical turbulence, Ukraine should immediately develop a comprehensive strategy for the development of horticulture, with a focus on domestic consumption, export potential and support for producers. Without this, the concept of “domestic fruit” will become an empty declaration.
Читайте нас у Telegram: головні новини коротко
