A sharp cold snap across most of Ukraine has caused a significant reduction in the supply of cucumbers on the domestic market. Due to a shortage of produce, prices for the popular vegetable have jumped by an average of 66% in just a week, EastFruit analysts report.

Currently, greenhouse farms sell cucumbers mainly in small wholesale. The harvest has fallen almost fivefold compared to the previous week, which further limits supply and creates a shortage on the market.

Cucumber prices are currently fluctuating in the range of 65–80 UAH per kilogram (≈ $1.57–1.93/kg). High demand from local wholesalers and retail chains is increasing price pressure. In addition, imported batches of cucumbers, which usually help to contain price increases, have not yet entered the market.

Experts note that the situation is still unstable, but the arrival of the first batches of imported cucumbers is possible next week. This may stabilize prices or even stop their further growth.

According to analysts, the current cost of cucumbers in Ukraine is 27% higher than last year's level for the same period. The price increase is especially noticeable for consumers who are faced with high retail prices in stores and markets.

Analysts advise consumers to focus on the period of the next two weeks, when price stabilization is expected, and producers to actively plan deliveries and storage of products to maintain profitability. So far, the cucumber market demonstrates a classic situation when weather factors directly affect the prices and availability of vegetables.