Holiday Season Drives Up Food Prices—When Will They Drop?.

Food Prices in Ukraine

According to Novyny.live: As the holidays approach, the cost of staple foods in Ukraine—such as apples, chicken, and buckwheat—has been climbing. However, experts predict a price drop once the new harvest arrives. In spring 2026, several grocery items have seen notable increases. For instance, apples rose from 31.46 hryvnias per kilogram to 45.78 hryvnias per kilogram. Chicken eggs and meat have also gone up, with chicken prices jumping from 113.16 hryvnias per kilogram to 138 hryvnias per kilogram.

Additionally, buckwheat prices climbed from 33.02 hryvnias per kilogram in January to 52.46 hryvnias per kilogram in March. Tomatoes saw a similar surge, moving from 123.91 hryvnias per kilogram to 167.42 hryvnias per kilogram. It's worth noting that apple prices in Ukraine varied widely at the end of 2026, ranging from 12 to 99 hryvnias per kilogram, highlighting significant market volatility.

Denys Marchuk notes, 'The transition period always fluctuates: when supply decreases while demand remains high, prices rise.'

He adds, however, that 'with the new harvest, prices for vegetables and fruits will decrease, making these products more affordable for Ukrainians.'

Apple Prices Across Retail Chains

Here’s a look at apple prices in different stores:

• At the Metro hypermarket, a kilogram of apples averages 41.50 hryvnias;
• At Megamarket, it’s 52.50 hryvnias;
• At Novus, 35.29 hryvnias;
• At Auchan, 55.70 hryvnias.

Other fruits also show a range of prices:

• Pears cost between 40 and 150 hryvnias per kilogram;
• Bananas average around 70 hryvnias per kilogram;
• Mandarin oranges and oranges range from 80 to 160 hryvnias per kilogram;
• Kiwis are priced at 150 hryvnias per kilogram.

The rise in prices for essential goods in Ukraine is tied to increased demand and seasonal market shifts. Still, forecasts point to a potential decline with the new harvest, which could improve food affordability for consumers. Keeping an eye on market trends and pricing policies will help Ukrainians stay informed about the food supply situation.