The goal is to become the next Barilla: A Ukrainian agriculture company will build a ₴1B durum wheat pasta production plant.

Agricultural company Zakhidnyy Buh, which has assets in western Ukraine, has begun constructing the country’s first mill specializing in the processing of durum wheat. The company’s aim is to become the “second Barilla” and produce products that are on par with those of Italian manufacturers. Barilla makes pasta from 100% durum wheat. The launch of the pasta factory is scheduled for September of this year, and the mill’s is planned for October, with investment in the project totaling ₴1B ($24M).

Initially, the company intended to grind both soft and durum wheat at one mill, but last year they altered their concept and acquired specialized equipment for grinding durum wheat, which will significantly enhance the production of high-quality pasta flour. The first stage will process 80 tons of durum wheat per day.

To ensure a steady supply of raw material, the company is launching a contract wheat growing program in collaboration with farmers. Most of the flour is expected to be exported to Europe, where there is consistently high demand.