Experts warn that Ukraine’s food prices are likely to rise more quickly as autumn approaches. In a report from the publication Country Politics, the trend is laid out in detail. The article notes that if prices for some staples stay flat through spring, flour and bread costs are set to climb in June, with the trajectory continuing through the year.
Ivan Tomich, who leads the Ukrainian Association of Farmers and Private Landowners, predicts a sharp lift in dairy and meat prices this fall. He cautions that increases in these categories could push overall food prices higher by a significant margin, with estimates suggesting a rise between 7% and 30% for dairy products, meats, and several other essentials.
The publication attributes the inflationary pressures to a combination of challenging energy conditions and their cascading effects on production. Widespread power outages mean many factories rely on generators, which raises operating costs and, in turn, wholesale and retail prices. A weaker hryvnia is also expected to contribute to higher price tags for imported inputs and goods.
Yunus Zainitdinov, who owns the Italmarket chain of stores, told the publication that rents for facilities equipped with generators in the capital market have risen by around 30,000 hryvnia per month, underscoring how energy disruptions are feeding into the cost structure for retailers and ultimately for consumers.
Former head of the Ukrainian Union of Public Services Consumers, Oleg Popenko, indicates that authorities are preparing to adjust gas and heating tariffs in the autumn. Such tariff changes would add another layer of pressure on household budgets as the heating season begins.
Historically, Ukraine has faced interruptions in supply and variability in costs tied to energy policy, exchange rates, and seasonal demand. Analysts point to the need for households and businesses to prepare for continued volatility. They emphasize prudent budgeting for food, energy, and related essentials as the economy navigates a period of adjustment. Continued monitoring of energy policy, currency trends, and inflation indicators is advised for consumers and merchants alike. 【Country Politics】