December 15 2010, 08:47 Fruit-Inform

Poland turning into net importer of vegetables

According to data of state statistics of Poland, in the first 3 quarters of 2010, the country was net importer of vegetables. Negative balance of external trade in fresh and processed vegetables amounted to 25 million euros within the first 3 quarters of 2010. For comparison, within the same period of 2009, balance of external trade was positive and amounted to 16 million euros.

In 2010, Poland was intensifying imports of onions, tomatoes, and sweet peppers, meanwhile decreasing exports of them. At the same time, there is increase in exports of cabbage and carrots, while imports of them are declining.

Specialists of Fruit-Inform Project think that turning of Poland into net importer of vegetables is explained by the country emphasizing on exports of cheap vegetables, while importing primarily expensive produce. At the same time, if considering volume terms, Poland remains net exporter of vegetable produce. Besides this, a certain role was played by decrease of production due to unfavorable weather conditions in 2010 that had negative impacts on export opportunities.

As to information of Fruit-Inform Project, Poland was actively purchasing Ukrainian early and mid-season onions during the period of harvesting. Currently, trade in vegetables between Ukraine and Poland is not active. Polish vegetables (primarily cabbage, potatoes, and carrots) are more actively supplied to the Russian Federation. In the nearest time, Ukraine may face rise of demand for Polish vegetables, primarily for white cabbage.