Seasonal vegetables, fruits, and berries are in full swing, but the price situation at markets in the regional capital is sparking a lot of discussion. Journalists from the regional media outlet “Zakarpats’kyi Visnyk” conducted a survey among shoppers and vendors in Uzhhorod to find out how the cost of agricultural products has changed compared to last year.
For most shoppers, the rising cost of food is obvious. City residents note that the budget for their daily groceries has increased significantly, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to afford the same amount of groceries.
“Prices have changed—and significantly—everything has become much more expensive,” one of the respondents shares her observations.
Key Factors Behind Rising Prices: Logistics and Fuel
The sellers themselves do not deny the general trend toward rising prices, attributing it to economic challenges and the full-scale war in the country. The main factor behind the rising cost of imported goods is the rapid increase in the price of fuel and lubricants, as well as logistical difficulties.
“Everything has gotten more expensive. There’s a war going on in Ukraine right now, and fuel prices have risen sharply, which directly affects the final cost of goods,” notes a market vendor.
In addition, retailers note that last year, consumer purchasing power was higher: people bought larger quantities of goods, and revenue was more stable.
An alternative from local producers: Are prices stable?
Despite the general rise in prices, products at last year’s prices can still be found in Uzhhorod’s markets. This applies primarily to local farmers and farms that sell their own harvest directly to buyers, bypassing middlemen.
Local growers say they are trying to keep the prices of berries and fruits at an affordable level.
“I wouldn’t say the price has gone up significantly. For example, a Transcarpathian peach costs between 90 and 100 hryvnias, and an apricot costs about 100 hryvnias. Raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries are holding steady at last year’s levels—roughly 300 hryvnias per kilogram. We grow the fruit ourselves, so we’re able to offer high-quality products at affordable prices,” says a local businesswoman.
Summary
Market monitoring reveals a mixed picture: imported products and essential vegetables have faced price pressure due to logistics costs, while seasonal berries and fruits from Transcarpathian farms are showing relative price stability.
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