Ukraine is demonstrating a steady increase in the import of foreign goods, and this trend is expected to intensify in the coming months, according to experts. The main driver of this process is the rise in consumer demand, which is confirmed by the dynamics of retail trade. In October 2025, retail sales volumes increased by 10.1% year-on-year, significantly surpassing the September figure of 7.1%. Additionally, the balances of funds in citizens’ bank accounts increased by 14.4% over the year, while wages rose by 2.9% in September.
This is reported by Finway
Industry Struggles to Keep Up with Demand
Despite the activation of the consumer market, domestic production is unable to meet the growing demand due to challenging energy conditions and destruction caused by attacks from the Russian Federation. In September, the industry remained stable, but by October, a decline of 4.6% was recorded.
Dependence on Imports and External Financing
Analysts emphasize that European and other Western goods, especially in the retail segment, often turn out to be more affordable and of better quality compared to Ukrainian counterparts. This stimulates further growth in imports but simultaneously creates risks for the country’s economic stability. Experts note that an increase in import dependence amid declining domestic production could lead to even greater financial reliance of Ukraine on external sources.
“The growth of imports alongside a decline in domestic production makes Ukraine even more dependent on external financing.”