Ukraine has achieved a significant milestone in the global market for frozen raspberries despite ongoing challenges posed by the Russian and North Korean invasion and the continuous threats to its energy infrastructure. According to analysts from EastFruit, Ukraine’s frozen raspberry exports have reached new heights, further solidifying its growing presence in this competitive market.
Record-Breaking Exports in the 2024/25 Season
During the first three months of the 2024/25 season (July to September), Ukraine exported over 28,000 tons of frozen raspberries and blackberries. This marks a 36% increase compared to the same period last year and a 45% rise over 2022. The growth in exports is particularly notable considering the challenges Ukrainian farmers faced in 2024, including reports of a decrease in raspberry yields.
Shifting Export Markets
While Poland remains a major player in the global frozen raspberry market, Ukraine has increasingly taken steps to bypass Polish intermediaries by directly targeting traditional Polish markets, including Germany and France. For instance, Germany’s market share for Ukrainian frozen raspberries in the current season has already surpassed 20%. The growing influence of Ukrainian raspberries in these markets reflects a shift in the trade dynamics within Europe.
Other significant markets for Ukrainian raspberries include Czechia, Lithuania, Austria, Belgium, and Italy. Moreover, Ukraine has started to make inroads into the U.S. and Canadian markets, with the first shipments of Ukrainian frozen raspberries already reaching these countries. Even Serbia, the global leader in frozen raspberry exports, has purchased substantial quantities from Ukraine for potential re-export.
A Positive Outlook Amid Market Cycles
Despite the challenges, Ukrainian raspberry growers are experiencing fewer complaints about low prices, a common issue due to the cyclical nature of the global raspberry market. This trend suggests that Ukrainian farmers are benefiting from more stable pricing, which is encouraging as they continue to expand their market share internationally.
In summary, Ukraine’s frozen raspberry exports are making impressive gains, with growth in both volume and market reach. As the country navigates a difficult geopolitical environment, it is gradually overtaking traditional market leaders and establishing itself as a key global supplier of frozen raspberries.
You Might Be Interested In:
