The cost of grapes in Ukraine in 2026 remained roughly at the same level as last season, despite a significant increase in the cost of fertilizers, plant protection products, fuel, and logistics, which is leading to a decline in the profitability of grape-growing operations.
Tetyana Shmaglyuchenko, head of the company “VIN’S,” discussed this in an interview with the agricultural publication SEEDS.
According to her, prices for most grape varieties have essentially remained at last year’s levels. Only a few large rosé varieties have become slightly more expensive. At the same time, production costs have increased significantly.
Producers cite rising costs of mineral fertilizers, vine protection products, and fuel as the main factors. Logistics have added to the burden, especially for farms in Bessarabia, where transportation costs have risen due to infrastructure damage and restrictions on traditional routes.
The situation is further complicated by a decline in the harvest. According to producers’ estimates, the gross grape harvest at some farms this season could be 20–30% lower than last year. Winter frosts and a cold spring have negatively affected yields.
The war is also directly affecting vineyards in southern Ukraine. Some vineyards have sustained damage as a result of hostilities, falling drone debris, and other war-related factors.
The combination of virtually unchanged selling prices, rising production costs, and reduced harvests is forcing producers to seek additional sources of income.
One such avenue is the further processing of grapes. Farms are investing in the production of fruit leather, raisins, and other products with higher added value, and are using infrared dryers and vacuum equipment to process fruit puree.
Another trend is cooperation with producers of other fruits. This allows for the production of combined products using local peaches, plums, and other raw materials.
Producers are also investing in energy self-sufficiency. In particular, solar power plants are used to power wells and irrigation systems, which helps to partially reduce dependence on external energy supplies.
At the same time, some farms are considering a shift from selling fresh grapes to winemaking. With grant support from the FAO, technical grape varieties are being planted that can later be used for wine production.
Thus, for Ukrainian viticulture in 2026, the key challenge will be not so much a lack of demand for products as the gap between the selling price and the cost of production. Under these conditions, processing allows farms to derive greater added value from their own raw materials while simultaneously maintaining production capacity and preserving employment for workers after the harvest season ends.
Viticulture remains one of the most labor-intensive sectors of horticulture in Ukraine. Most commercial grape production is concentrated in the southern regions of the country and in Zakarpattia, and a significant portion of the industry has been directly affected by the full-scale war.
Source: SEEDS.
