TOP Sectors of Ukrainian Economy - AgriFood

Nieuwsbericht | 13-06-2024 | 16:07

The Guide presents information on the following priority sectors of Ukrainain economy:

1. Agrifood
2. Transportation & Logistics
3. Energy
4. Hydrogen
5. Green steel
6. Critical raw materials
7. Housing, reconstruction and building materials
8. Pharmaceutical and Medical sectors
9. ICT and digital sector

Read about TOP sectors in the Netherlands on this link Topsectoren

AgriFood sector overview

page 31 of the Guide. Chapter 4.1

4.1.1. Current situation and the sector role in the economy of ukraine and global food security

Ukraine is one of the guarantors of food security in the world, contributing to the global food market with the capacity to feed about 400 million people.1 Before Russia’s invasion, Ukraine supplied 50% of the grain stock of the UN World Food Program, the largest humanitarian organisation in the world. The agrifood sector plays a key role in Ukraine’s economy.

The agrifood sector has shown much resilience, remaining a powerful component of the country’s exports. In 2023, the share of agri-food products in the total exports of Ukraine increased to 62% compared to 41% in 2021.

Exports

Ukraine remains a key supplier of grain and sunflower oil in the world markets. Despite its size, Ukrainian agriculture relies on exporting competitive but low-added-value grains and oilseeds. With regard to the more profitable prepared foods (excluding oilseed cake), Ukraine is a net importer, and these products represent only 6% of Ukraine’s trade with the EU.

Processed products, livestock sector, and creating added value

Almost 80% of Ukraine’s exports are raw commodities or partially processed products.

Ukraine has significant resources for biofuel production which are currently underexploited, but could potentially support European energy and climate goals as well as contribute to the development of the domestic market.

The livestock sector in Ukraine is important for ensuring the country’s food security, however, the market is characterised by a steady tendency to reduce the number of almost all types of livestock.

The war and agribusiness – key developments and issues

Prior to the Russian invasion, 98% of Ukraine’s grain exports were transported through the Black Sea11. The disruption of the grain agreement and the blockade of shipping in the Black Sea affected the structure of logistics routes. The role of land transport has increased significantly.

About 25% of Ukrainian lands have been contaminated with landmines and unexploded ordnance. Ukraine is interested in increasing the number and expanding the existing programs for demining the lands of small farmers and supporting agricultural producers initiated by international institutions.

The destroyed Kakhovka HPP aggravated the problem of water supply. Over 300,000 hectares will now depend on uncertain rain-fed irrigation, resulting in productivity losses of up to 70%. Reclamation and irrigation systems for land restoration are becoming more relevant, which has attracted the interest of international donors and investors.

Overview of key players in the sector and successful cases of recent years

Ukraine’s agricultural sector is characterised by a competitive market environment. Market players vary in size: large domestic companies and subsidiaries of international groups operate alongside small local farmers. SMEs are responsible for over 83% of product sales, while the share of large enterprises is lower at 16%.

4.1.2. Overview and outlook of key reforms

The list of reforms is not exhaustive. The Ukrainian government is also working to strengthen export logistics by opening new international checkpoints, speeding up cargo inspection procedures and expanding border capacity. Ukraine is actively allocating funds to restore critical logistics infrastructure (including rail and road networks) through the Restoration of Critical Logistics Infrastructure and Network Connectivity project