In September 2024, Ukraine started importing potatoes from Poland and Lithuania. According to official statistics, from September 1 to 23, 2024, three trucks of potatoes were imported: 22 tons from Lithuania worth US$10.56 million and 42 tons from Poland worth US$21.664 million. EastFruit reports that.
According to the Ukrainian customs, from January to August 2024, Ukraine imported 15,000 tons of potatoes. During this period, potato exports were 760 tons worth $215,000, and imports were 15,356 tons worth $9,324,000.
According to analysts, the potato import started due to the increased demand for edible potatoes from local wholesalers and retailers, as well as because of the assumption that there may be a shortage of quality potatoes this season. Potato prices have risen significantly amid high demand for edible potatoes amid rumours of a shortage of high-quality potatoes this season. The main reasons for importing potatoes are the increase in demand due to the needs of the armed forces and the decrease in domestic production in Ukraine.
Source: Agravery.com