This year, Ukrainian farmers saw strong vegetable yields, but low market prices have shifted priorities. Maintaining quality storage has become essential for profitability, with professional, energy-efficient equipment taking precedence over cost.
"Many Ukrainian growers, especially potato producers, now have their own storage facilities," says Andriy Marushchak, Commercial Director at Van Dyke Technics, a company specializing in professional storage and processing solutions for fruits, berries, and vegetables. "Effectiveness is now more important than price. Poorly designed storage can turn a profitable harvest into a loss."
He explains that if last year energy costs were low, then storing potatoes added only about UAH 0.05 per kg per month, manageable with sales at UAH 14/kg. With low-quality equipment, however, storage costs can rise to UAH 1/kg per month, quickly erasing profits when market prices are low.
State programs, such as the 5-7-9 credit scheme, now help farmers invest in professional storage systems. Ukrainian growers are increasingly aware that infrastructure is not just about preservation; it is a tool for market stability and export readiness.
Processing infrastructure is also expanding. Ukraine recently saw the construction of its first French fries processing plant in Cherkasy, targeting exports. Complementary products like dehydrated potato flakes are in demand internationally, ensuring guaranteed export markets.
"Automation is crucial, Marushchak notes, European farmers already use optical sorters and fully automated palletizers. Ukraine is following the same path, although on a smaller scale."
Source: www.seeds.org.ua
