The season for selling new crop potatoes has begun in Ukraine, but the first batches of products have appeared on the market at significantly high prices. The demand for early vegetables is traditionally accompanied by a limited supply, which is immediately reflected in the price.

This was reported by Agrotimes with reference to data from the Shuvar wholesale market in Lviv. It was here that the first deliveries of new potatoes from the Zakarpattia region were recorded, which marked the start of the season on the domestic market.

At the beginning of sales, the cost of new potatoes ranges from 120 to 150 UAH per kilogram. At the same time, selected batches of the product cost even more - up to 200 UAH per kilogram, which makes it one of the most expensive vegetables at the start of the season.

For comparison, last year's potato harvest remains much more affordable for consumers. Depending on the variety and purchase volume, the price of old potatoes is only 6–12 UAH per kilogram, which is dozens of times cheaper than the new crop.

The price increase is also observed in the segment of other early vegetables. In particular, radishes demonstrate an increase in cost due to the transition period between greenhouse and field production: a bunch costs 25–27 UAH, and weighted products — about 60 UAH per kilogram.

Cucumbers on the market are sold for about 65 UAH per kilogram, zucchini — for 110 UAH. Early cabbage costs about 45 UAH/kg, while Beijing cabbage is kept in the range of 35–38 UAH/kg, demonstrating a slightly lower price level.

Among root vegetables, old beets remain the most affordable — 11–12 UAH per kilogram. At the same time, young greenhouse beets cost much more — about 110 UAH/kg. Carrots have also risen in price to about 12 UAH/kg.

Among greens, the lowest price is green onions, which can be purchased for 15 UAH per bunch. It remains one of the most stable products in the early season of vegetable production.

Market experts explain the high starting prices for young potatoes by the seasonal factor. The first batches are always more expensive due to limited supply and high costs of growing early crops. As the supply to the market increases, a gradual decrease in prices is expected.