May 5 2011, 11:19 Fruit-Inform

72% year-on-year growth of fruit and vegetable prices in Ukraine

Fruit-Inform Project's fruit and vegetable index shows that, as of early May 2011, fruit and vegetable prices in Ukraine were 72% higher than a year before.

“This year prices for major fruits and vegetables grew very considerably, and the largest contribution to this growth was made by borsch vegetables (onions, cabbage, beets, carrots) and potatoes”, Andriy Yarmak, Head of Fruit-Inform Project, says. “Year-on-year growth of borsch vegetable and potato prices amounts to 93% that is a record-breaking level for all history of independent Ukraine”, the expert continues.

The largest year-on-year growth was registered for white cabbage prices which increased almost 3 times. Beets became more than 2 times more expensive, potatoes – 2 times exactly, and carrots – 86%. Only wholesale prices for onions in this season were slightly (7%) lower in early May than in the same period of last season.

Greenhouse vegetables grew in price by 23%, fruits – by 48%. The largest contribution to growth of fruit prices was made by apples which became 2.3 times more expensive. Banana prices increased by 30% under the influence of demand growth provoked by apple shortage in the world. Citrus fruits grew in price by 10% year-on-year.

According to preliminary forecasts of Fruit-Inform Project, vegetable and potato price decrease and apple price slump should be expected in the following season.

Detailed forecast will be available in the middle of May and can be ordered with full production and trade statistics, supply and demand balances, and contact details of major participants in the fruit and vegetable market of Ukraine at International Relations Department of Fruit-Inform Project:

by phone: +380 96 5836323,

or via e-mail: [email protected].