The biggest obstacle for Ukrainian businesses during the war is rising prices.

Difficulties with transportation, a decrease in demand for goods, and a lack of labor are joined by the cost of raw materials, according to the results of an April study by the IER. Although it is noted that the commercial economic situation improved in April, the expectations of enterprise managers are positive but less optimistic than a month ago.

According to 68% of survey respondents, rising raw materials and prices for goods remain the biggest obstacle for businesses. Interruptions with electricity, water, or heat supply compared to March had less impact on their work and moved to the sixth place on the list with 29% in April against 46% in March. Logistics problems were noted by 43% of respondents. Complications with the transportation of raw materials rose to second place compared to March.

Almost a third of enterprises complain about the lack of labor due to conscription or migration abroad. This indicator remains almost unchanged at 31% against 30% a month earlier.