There is a lot of potential for the development of organic horticulture in Ukraine. This is thanks to the vast tracts of unused land. Ukrsadprom, a federation of Ukranian growers, says their country currently uses only 5,3% of the 7,4 million hectares of land that is suitable for organic farming.
There is an increased demand for organic products on the local and international markets. This rise in demand is leading to a substantial increase in Ukranian products. Fruit, berries, and nuts are the most promising organic goods the country produces.
Ukrsadprom claims that in 2016, there were 57,8 million hectares of unpolluted land in the world. Of this, 40.000 ha can be found in Ukraine. The amount of organically certified land covers an area of 1% of the country's horticultural land.
Organic farming of fruit, berries, and nuts is becoming increasingly popular in Ukraine. "These plantations now cover an area of 5.000 ha. Stone fruit is grown on 2.500 ha and berries on 630 ha. Then there are strawberries on 170 ha, walnuts on 290 ha, hazelnuts on 40 ha, and other nuts take up 50 ha," says a spokesperson from the association.
According to the xinhuanet.com website, 300 certified companies currently produce about EUR17 million's worth of organic products. These include crops such as grains and vegetables.