Poland is weighing a safety net for its domestic fruit sector as officials consider asking the European Commission to bar the import of frozen raspberries and strawberries from Ukraine. The move follows concerns that Ukrainian produce has unsettled the Polish market and undermined local growers. This discussion sits within broader efforts to shield farmers and preserve price stability for Poland and nearby markets.
There has been a noticeable uptick in Ukrainian fruit shipments to Poland, extending from the previous year into early 2023. Imports of strawberries and frozen raspberries from Ukraine surged, adding pressure on supply and tightening competition for Polish producers. Industry stakeholders monitor the trend closely, fearing greater price and income volatility for farmers who depend on predictable markets for planning and investment.
Officials say the aim is to establish a clearer, more predictable trade framework that protects home producers while preserving fair access to European markets. The minister described the situation as challenging for Polish growers and noted that market stability in the fruit sector hinges on measured policy responses that can dampen sudden import surges when domestic demand does not align with supply. [Citation: Ministry of Agriculture, Poland]
Poland has prepared a formal request to the EU Trade Commissioner to include frozen raspberries and strawberries from Ukraine on the list of goods prohibited for import. A comprehensive letter detailing the rationale and potential impact on Polish agriculture will be submitted to the European Commission in the near term, with the expectation of prompt consideration by Brussels. [Citation: European Commission briefing]
Prior to this phase, the Polish Ministry of Agriculture had already voiced concerns and urged EU authorities to reassess import rules for Ukrainian raspberries. The objective was to shield local growers from market distortions while keeping the broader aims of the EU-Ukraine trade framework in view. [Citation: Polish Ministry press release]
Media coverage has reflected a wider national and regional conversation about how shifts in markets and labor dynamics intersect with agricultural policy. Reports from major outlets highlight that the situation affects farming communities and the supply chain, prompting a broader discussion about resource allocation and policy responses across European agriculture. [Citation: regional business press]