Prices of Berries in Ukraine to Rise Due to Labor Shortage

According to recent data, the shortage of labor in the berry farming sector in Ukraine is contributing to rising prices for berries, particularly garden strawberries. This is especially relevant for regions such as Kharkiv and Sumy, where a significant portion of the harvest has been left unpicked due to a lack of workers.

This is reported by AgroReview

Labor Shortage and Its Impact on Price Levels

Agronomist consultant for berry cultivation Iryna Pavlova noted that last season in Kharkiv region, 40-50% of strawberries remained on the bushes due to an insufficient number of workers for harvesting. A similar situation was observed in Sumy, raising concerns about future harvests and berry prices.

Ms. Pavlova recommends that farmers plan ahead for hiring workers for harvest to avoid similar problems in the future. She cited an example of a company in Rivne region that organizes transportation for its workers from a distance of 240 km. This company, which cultivates 70 hectares of berry plantations, employs up to 1000 workers on harvesting days.

Expected Trends in Pricing Policy

According to Iryna Pavlova, the labor shortage is causing not only an increase in berry prices but also forecasts further price hikes throughout the current season. Additionally, the rising costs of fertilizers, plant protection products, and electricity are also affecting the price of the final product.