As a result of military activities and temporary russia’s occupation, some companies, which are among the top-20 milk processors in the country, completely or partially stopped running business, according to infagro.com.ua.

Dairy farmers also suffer significantly from russia’s troop invasion. Supply chains in the occupied territories have collapsed. There are numerous cases of deliberate destruction of farm facilities and machinery as well as dairy cattle.

Ukrainian farmers are definitely heroes. They continue to milk cows and prepare for spring planting despite russia’s military occupation, flying bullets and falling bombs. Everything is being done for the food security both of Ukraine and the world.

We can say the same about milk processors who did not stop (or resumed production after a certain pause) and now continue to provide Ukrainian consumers with dairy products.

In March, there was a slight decrease in raw milk prices in Ukraine. The prices were obviously determined on geographical basis — from minimal price changes in the west to dramatical in the territories under active military activities.

As war started, there has been some surplus of raw milk in the market. In the conditions, processing companies would rather prefer to purchase raw milk from agricultural enterprises. Therefore, purchase prices for milk produced by households dropped critically — decreasing by 25% (from UAH 8/kg to UAH 6/kg).

Milk prices for agricultural enterprises depend on the region, ranging from UAH 8.65/kg to UAH 10.65/kg.

Dairy farmers have been forced to optimize feeding rations and reduce the number of milkings — from three to two. Although this will reduce the supply of raw milk in the market but also help the farmers to maintain financial balance and preserve livestock in Ukraine.