Ukrainian farmers expect higher prices for agricultural products

Ukrainian agricultural enterprises expect a slowdown in the decline of production volumes, an increase in product prices, and a partial expansion of their workforce in April–June 2026.

This is evidenced by the results of an April survey of 800 agricultural enterprise managers, released by the State Statistics Service.

According to the State Statistics Service, the balance of expectations regarding production volumes for the second quarter improved by 23 percentage points and stands at -11. Sixteen percent of respondents forecast an increase in production, 57% expect stability, and 27% anticipate a decline.

In livestock farming, the indicator moved into positive territory and stands at +4, while in crop farming it remains negative at -18.

Expectations regarding agricultural product prices have also strengthened: the balance rose to 26 compared to 12 in the previous quarter. Price increases are forecast by 37% of enterprises, while 11% expect a decrease.

The largest increase in product prices is expected in crop production, where the balance stands at 32.

The employment situation has also improved somewhat: the balance of expectations rose to 7. Seventeen percent of agricultural enterprises plan to hire new employees, 73% will maintain their workforce unchanged, and 10% will reduce it.

According to the results of the first quarter of 2026, only 12% of enterprises increased production, while 38% recorded a decline, resulting in an overall balance of -26.

Export activity during this period remained subdued: the sales balance stood at 2 in the EU market and 1 outside the European Union.

Respondents cited weather conditions, financial constraints, and labor shortages as the main factors hindering the development of the agricultural sector.

At the same time, 74% of companies reported that they have sufficient product inventories for sale.

Tags: Ukraine, prices, agricultural products