How prices for dairy products will change in December.

There is a shortage of high-quality milk on the market caused by production fluctuations and a decrease in the number of livestock at agricultural enterprises that produce 'extra' grade milk and higher. As a result, prices for milk have sharply increased.

Experts predict that by the end of December 2024, the price for 'extra' grade milk will exceed 20 hryvnias per kilogram and will be 20.1 hryvnias per kilogram, which is 0.87 hryvnias more than in November.

Prices for higher-grade milk are expected to rise to about 19.56 hryvnias per kilogram (+0.67 hryvnias), while the price for first-grade milk raw material will be 19.12 hryvnias per kilogram (+0.54 hryvnias) as of December 30 compared to November.

Experts warn that the increase in the price of milk raw materials, fuel, and electricity may lead to a rise in retail prices for dairy products by 10-15%. However, this is a minor increase.

According to scientist Ivan Svinozus, the low purchasing power of the population may restrain the rapid increase in the prices of dairy products in stores. However, he warns of possible cessation of activities of certain dairy processing enterprises and a decrease in the production of dairy products due to the current situation in the milk market.

Experts from the Institute of Agricultural Economy predict that the price of sour cream will increase to 140 hryvnias per kilogram (+16%), pasteurized milk with 2.5% fat content will be about 44 hryvnias per liter (+15%), and the price of 9% fermented cheese will rise to 160 hryvnias per kilogram (+12%) as of December 30 compared to November.

Considering the income levels of the population and prices for products in retail markets, dumplings with cheese on the tables of Ukrainians may become a luxury.