The Ukrainian Blueberry Growers Association (UBGA) was established on February 14, 2025, to unite leading farms and promote Ukrainian blueberries on the global market.
The Association has expanded to 40 members in just eight months, representing over 1,700 hectares of plantations nationwide. "Our first year is unfolding under the difficult conditions of war, yet our mission remains the same: to build a professional community equipped with knowledge, resilience, and a shared vision for growth," says Nataliia Pukshyn, President of UBGA.
© The Ukrainian Blueberry Growers Association
Ukraine's blueberry industry continues to develop rapidly. In 2025, total exports of fresh blueberries reached approximately 4,650 tonnes, almost 30% more than in 2024 (3,600 tonnes). The main export destinations remain Poland, the Netherlands, Georgia, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
To preserve premium quality and shelf life, Ukrainian growers continue to hand-pick berries during the early and mid-harvest periods, ensuring gentle handling and a consistent appearance.
UBGA members are actively investing in modern European and licensed varieties, drones, precision irrigation systems, and state-of-the-art sorting equipment. Many farms are also developing organic and premium lines to meet the growing demand of the EU market.
"We're not only growing berries, we are building a community that raises standards and strengthens Ukraine's position on the global stage," emphasizes Pukshyn. The Association is becoming a platform for knowledge exchange and joint promotion, helping to strengthen the Ukrainian blueberry brand and expand export opportunities.
This year, UBGA delegations visited Spain, where they met with Freshuelva, BerryWorld, and other industry leaders. The purpose was to learn, exchange experiences, and build partnerships for technology transfer and trade development. "By joining forces, Ukrainian growers can speak with one voice, learn from each other, and act as one strong team in international markets," adds Pukshyn.
Despite increasing competition on the world market, Ukrainian producers are working to harmonize varieties, packaging, and quality standards to meet the requirements of large retail chains. The ongoing war continues to test the industry. Farmers face equipment damage, temporary occupation of territories, labor shortages, and logistical challenges.
In October 2025, the Association held its second members' meeting at SVC "Yahidky" (Kyiv region), a producer of organic blueberries. "Transparency and trust are our core values. Every company has an equal voice, and all processes are open to partners and investors," stresses UBGA President Pukshyn.
© The Ukrainian Blueberry Growers Association
In 2025, UBGA signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Ministry of Agrarian Policy of Ukraine, a significant step in developing collaboration between the state and the blueberry industry. The partnership aims to support exports, strengthen standards, and expand international connections through participation in trade fairs and business missions.
Together, these steps are laying the foundation for a competitive, export-oriented blueberry industry, one ready to grow despite the challenges of war.
For more information:
Nataliia Pukshyn
Ukrainian Blueberry Growers Association
Tel.: +38-068-444-7878
[email protected]
www.blueberry.org.ua
