Over the past week, cool and rainy weather has prevailed across most of Ukraine, directly impacting the quality of locally grown sweet cherries. According to analysts at the EastFruit project, the majority of sweet cherries currently available on the market are of medium or low quality. Meanwhile, supply continues to increase gradually, putting downward pressure on prices. Growers are deeply concerned that the ongoing rainfall could negatively affect both overall harvest volume and fruit quality this season.
Currently, local sweet cherries are being sold on Ukraine's domestic market at prices ranging from UAH 140 to 200 per kg ($3.36–4.80/kg), which is, on average, 13% lower than at the end of last week. Despite the limited supply of this stone fruit, demand remains modest. In addition, sellers of lower-quality cherries are eager to move their product quickly, further reducing prices.
A key factor driving the decline in wholesale prices has been the sharp drop in fruit quality. The deterioration is largely due to persistent rain in the main production regions. Excess moisture causes cherries to crack while still on the trees, making it nearly impossible to sell them at premium prices.
That said, it is worth noting that current prices for locally grown sweet cherries in Ukraine are still, on average, three times higher than during the same period last year.
Source: EastFruit
