Analysts expect Ukraine's butter exports to grow by third in March as Ukrainians lack purchasing power

MOSCOW. March 18 (Interfax) - Even though Ukraine has increased its production of butter, consumption of butter inside the country has declined considerably as retail prices for it remain very high, Ukrainian media said, citing data from the industry's Infagro research and information agency.

"Since only 82% butter can be sold in Europe, companies selling Krestyanskoye butter are currently unable to keep the price unchanged thanks to exports. Exports of this butter are limited to relatively small shipments to Moldova and Kazakhstan. Being aware of the situation in Ukraine's domestic market, importers from these countries do not rush to pay high prices for this Ukrainian product: as demand in the domestic market remains weak, some Ukrainian producers have to offer serious discounts," the center's analysts said.

Ukraine's butter exports grew by a third in February 2025 month-on-month, they said.

"In March, butter exports may hit new all-time highs since 2022," they said.