Ukraine estimates 9.3 mln tons of crops could be harvested in Russian-occupied territories

Around 3.5 mln ha of agricultural land in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine have been planted in 2026, with the potential grain and oilseed harvest estimated at about 9.3 mln tons. The figures were announced by Ukraine’s Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food Taras Vysotskyi.

The ministry’s estimates are based on satellite imagery, which makes it possible to assess planted areas and approximate production volumes in territories currently beyond Ukraine’s control. Wheat accounts for the largest area at around 1.8 mln ha, with potential production estimated at approximately 5.5 mln tons.

Around 600 thsd ha are planted with barley, with potential production estimated at 1.3 mln tons. Corn occupies about 150 thsd ha and could produce another 850 thsd tons.

Among oilseeds, sunflower seed accounts for the largest area at around 800 thsd ha, with potential production estimated at approximately 1.3 mln tons. Rapeseed occupies another 120 thsd ha, with production potentially reaching around 250 thsd tons.

Wheat and sunflower seed alone therefore account for around 2.6 mln ha and could produce approximately 6.8 mln tons. However, the ministry said it has no information on how crops harvested in the occupied territories will subsequently be used, as satellite monitoring can only provide estimates of planted areas and potential production volumes.

Tags: barley, oilseeds, wheat, sunseed, crop forecast, war, temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, corn, grain