How France Supports Farmers During Rising Fuel Prices
The increase in diesel fuel prices has significantly impacted Ukraine’s agricultural sector. Since the beginning of 2026, the cost of diesel has risen from 55 to 95 UAH per liter, resulting from both market fluctuations and an increase in excise duty from 215.7 to 253.8 euros per thousand liters. In the structure of costs for spring fieldwork, fuel accounts for up to 30%, and the delay in the sowing campaign has already reached 10–15 days. The overall cost of the campaign has increased by approximately 15% – to 700 billion UAH.
This is reported by AgroReview
France’s Experience: Financial Assistance and Electrification Strategy
A similar situation is observed in France, where fuel prices for agricultural machinery (GNR) have risen due to the escalation in the Middle East. In March 2026, the French government allocated 70 million euros to support farmers, fishermen, and transporters. Of this amount, 14 million euros were directed towards reducing the tax on non-agricultural diesel, providing a discount of 4 euro cents per liter for farmers. Additionally, the government offered deferrals on social contributions and state loans of up to 500 million euros. At the same time, France introduced a strategy for the gradual transition to the electrification of agricultural machinery to reduce dependence on diesel fuel in the long term.
The main agricultural union in France, FNSEA, demanded 30 cents per liter, reminding that in 2022 — during the energy shock following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine — farmers received 15 cents per liter. If the government does not increase support, the union threatens new tractor protests on highways.
Current Support for Farmers in Ukraine
Currently, there is no direct compensation for fuel for farmers in Ukraine. However, other support programs are in place: the state compensates 25% of the cost of domestic agricultural machinery (1.8 billion UAH has been allocated for this purpose in 2026). For farmers from frontline areas, the compensation has been increased to 40%. Furthermore, the preferential lending program “5-7-9%” has been extended until the end of 2027. According to the Ministry of Economy, fuel accounts for 10–15% of the cost structure of agricultural products, but during fieldwork, this share reaches 30%.
Thus, France’s experience with direct financial support and the implementation of energy independence strategies may be useful in finding effective solutions in the Ukrainian agricultural sector.