The full-scale Russian invasion has seriously affected the Ukrainian potato market, changing production volumes, import structure, and consumer prices. According to the KSE Institute, the area under potatoes has decreased by 21%, and the total production volume has decreased by 11%. However, the decline was partially offset by an increase in yield.

After the start of the war, consumer prices for potatoes have increased significantly. If in 2021 the average price was 11.2 UAH/kg, then in 2024 it reached 24 UAH/kg, that is, it has increased by 13.4 UAH/kg. The period of low prices has decreased from 10 months in the pre-war period to 2–4 months in 2023–2024. Price fluctuations around the average level increased to 33–35%, which indicates greater market instability during the war years.

The reduction in ultra-early potatoes, which were traditionally grown in the south of the country, was especially noticeable. This product practically disappeared from the market, which significantly affected the consumer assortment in the first months of the season.

Ukraine was traditionally a net importer of seed potatoes in 2015–2024. In 2022 alone, the volume of seed potato imports decreased by 4 times compared to 2021. At the same time, in 2024, the share of imported table potatoes was 2.3% of the gross harvest, while in 2021, during the peak period of imports, this figure reached 8.1%. Before the war, Ukraine actively increased imports of both fresh and seed potatoes.

Within two years, imports resumed, but the geography of suppliers changed. Previously, the main potato exporting countries to Ukraine were Poland, Lithuania, the Netherlands and Latvia, which accounted for about 70% of the total import volume. After the full-scale invasion, Ukraine stopped purchases from Belarus and the Russian Federation, and also significantly reduced the volume of supplies from Germany (by 48 times) and Romania (by 47 times).

In 2024, the main suppliers were Azerbaijan, Turkey, Greece, Macedonia and Georgia, which provide from 2.6 to 6% of total imports. Thus, the war not only reduced the total volume of imports, but also led to a significant restructuring of trade routes and a change of partners.

In general, the hostilities seriously affected the Ukrainian potato market. Sown areas and production volumes decreased, consumer prices increased, and the structure of imports underwent radical changes. Today, the country is actively looking for new trading partners to ensure food security and market stability.

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