Ukrainian farmers cultivate crops unique to their local agricultural market and are developing new sales channels abroad.

The Diamantova Yagoda enterprise has established Ukraine’s first industrial irga (cotoneaster) plantation on 20 hectares in the Kyiv region. Not much is known about this berry in Ukraine, as it is not very common in European countries. It is mainly grown in the northern US and southern Canada, where this crop originated. Irga is one of the most potent natural antioxidants, containing many trace elements and vitamins. From one hectare, 10-15 tons of berries can be harvested. The Diamantova Yagoda enterprise plans to sell its products through supermarket chains and already has some experience doing so. Also, Ukraine has gained approval to export sunflower seeds to Argentina. This not only bolsters Ukraine’s position in the global agricultural market but also creates new opportunities for local producers. Additionally, amid worsening trade relations between China and the US, Beijing has increased its soybean imports, purchasing a record 11.67 million tons in July. Ongoing uncertainty may lead China to boost soybean imports further, including Ukrainian varieties.