The Ukrainian agricultural sector is navigating full-scale war and global shifts, with the onion market emerging as an area of interest for producers. Traditionally overlooked, onions now present export opportunities due to a price advantage over European counterparts. This shift signals a new trajectory for Ukrainian agricultural exports.
Before the conflict, 60% of Ukraine's onions were cultivated in the southern regions, such as Zaporizhia, Kherson, Mykolaiv, and Odessa. These areas achieved stable yields of 60-80 t/ha. However, the conflict prompted a relocation of cultivation to central and western Ukraine, where approximately 30-35% of the crop is now grown. Western regions, previously focused on cabbage, carrots, and beets, have entered onion production, despite initial challenges. Farmers in these areas initially achieved yields of 20 t/ha, significantly lower than southern yields, due to technological adaptation issues.
Despite maintaining cultivation areas, overall production decreased by 20-25% in 2024 compared to 2023. Contributing factors include failure to adapt to climatic changes, insufficient irrigation, and increased pest and disease pressure. Logistics costs and storage complexities further impact production volumes.
International demand for Ukrainian onions is rising. In 2021, imported onions constituted 2% of the European market, increasing to 13% by 2022–2023. Key markets include Romania, Bulgaria, Austria, and Montenegro, with renewed exports to Moldova and emerging opportunities in the UK. Ukrainian onions maintain a price advantage, with wholesale prices at 31 US cents per kilogram, significantly lower than in Poland and the Netherlands. This pricing differential supports export growth prospects.
Domestic production averages 1 million tons annually, with large agricultural enterprises achieving higher yields due to investments in quality seeds and protection products. The Ukrainian onion market, amidst challenges, continues to evolve, presenting potential for increased international presence.
Source: MLVVN