Ukraine’s largest fish factory aims to process local river fish and is currently seeking suppliers.

The Klion Group, based in Zaporizhzhia, operates the largest fish processing plant in the country, producing Veladis-branded products across 250 different types, including canned goods, pastes, caviar, fish burgers, fish sticks, and minced meat. The facility generates a total of 800 tons of finished products each month with a current workforce of 1,200. The plant has the potential to triple its output, but a personnel shortage limits expansion.

Despite being near the front line and facing wartime challenges, the plant is pursuing ambitious growth plans. In addition to sourcing imported fish, it aims to master the industrial processing of Ukrainian river fish such as silver carp, carp, and pike perch. The company is actively seeking partners to ensure reliable supply volumes of these fish.

A significant portion of the imported fish is caught by Klion Group’s own vessels, as the company owns a fleet in Uruguay. Other product components, including packaging, oil, and salt, are sourced from Ukrainian manufacturers. Post-war, Klion Group plans to engage in fish farming within Ukraine.