In Ukraine this July, wholesale prices for watermelons have dropped to 5–14 UAH per kilogram, which is 36% lower compared to the previous week and 28% lower than in July 2024. The main factors behind this decline are oversupply and decreased fruit quality due to prolonged heat and drought. Producers are forced to sell watermelons at a loss, despite the fact that overall production volumes have decreased due to the occupation of the Kherson region and the loss of part of the harvest.
This is reported by Finway
Reasons for Price Decline: Climatic and Market Factors
This season has been marked by an unusual phenomenon for the market: prices are falling even amid reduced production. Experts explain that this year’s heat and drought have accelerated the ripening of melons, resulting in a significantly larger number of watermelon batches hitting the market at the same time. However, the quality of a significant portion of the harvest leaves much to be desired – the high temperatures have negatively affected the taste characteristics, water content, and appearance of the fruits.
The occupation of key melon-growing regions, primarily the Kherson region, remains a serious challenge, significantly limiting farmers’ access to fields and leading to the loss of part of the harvest. Additionally, insufficient irrigation and climate changes have further complicated the situation for agricultural producers.
Oversupply in the Market and Low Demand
Even with reduced production, the market has been flooded with too many watermelons, causing oversaturation in a short period. Additionally, competition is intensified by imported melons that are also entering the market.
Low demand for watermelons this summer is putting additional pressure on the market. Consumers are unable to purchase the entire volume of products arriving in stores and markets, while logistical difficulties and mediocre quality of certain batches only worsen the situation. Producers do not rule out further price declines, as most are forced to sell their harvest with minimal profit or even at a loss.
“Prices may continue to fall, as even now, product sales are occurring with minimal profit or even at a loss.”
Retail Prices in Supermarkets
As of July 4, watermelons in Ukrainian supermarkets cost an average of 27.11 UAH/kg. However, prices can vary significantly among different retail chains. For example, in the ATB chain, watermelons are offered at 19.49 UAH/kg, in Silpo at 20.30 UAH/kg, and in Varus at 17.90 UAH/kg. In some supermarkets, prices reach 29.99–32.90 UAH/kg.