As the project was launched in 2016, it covered the Kherson, Mykolayiv, and Odesa regions.
Vegetable farming in Ukraine is characterized by a high level of production for both domestic consumption and export. A significant portion of vegetables is grown in private household farms, as well as on large commercial farms.
In recent years, there has been an increase in demand for organic vegetables, contributing to the development of organic farming.
The export of fresh vegetables from Ukraine from 2016 to 2021 (the first project phase) shows positive dynamics despite challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic and political instability. Export volume rose from $35 million (2016) to $47 million (2021) according to ITC TradeMap. An important direction for further development is the diversification of sales markets, improving product quality, and implementing modern agro-technologies.
The war in Ukraine has significantly impacted all sectors of the economy, including the agricultural sector and, in particular, vegetable farming. Southern Ukraine was one of the key regions for vegetable cultivation due to its favorable climatic conditions, fertile soils, and developed infrastructure. Due to occupation, active hostilities, the destruction of the Kakhovka hydroelectric power station, and the loss of a significant irrigation system, this sector, which is crucial for ensuring the national food security, has faced unprecedented challenges and difficulties.
