Ukraine berry prices hit record levels amid supply shortages

The Ukrainian berry market experienced declining supplies and record-high prices for raspberries, blueberries, and everbearing strawberries in September. According to the Ukrainian Berries Association, a raspberry shortage within European Union markets has driven increased demand for Ukrainian fruit.

Raspberry retail prices reached between 200 and 280 UAH per kilogram during the month. Processors also saw record pricing, paying up to 195 UAH per kilogram during seasonal peaks. While the autumn harvest of everbearing varieties provided some supply, overall volumes remained limited.

Blueberry supplies also saw a decline, with retail prices rising to a median of approximately 250 UAH per kilogram. Similarly, everbearing strawberries traded at a median price of roughly 200 UAH per kilogram.

Regional weather conditions have impacted the broader market. In Poland, spring frosts and unfavorable summer weather resulted in lower raspberry and blueberry harvests, particularly for the Chandler variety. This reduction in Polish production has increased the demand from processors for fruit from other origins, such as Ukraine.