Ukraine: Seafood Imports Rebound Despite the War

Ukraine’s total imports of fish and seafood rebounded by 28 percent in 2023 after a major war-impacted drop in 2022. The demand for seafood remains strong, although it has shifted from more expensive species to cheaper ones. Strong imports are taking place despite a 20 percent population drop, a major disposable income decline, and new and more expensive trade routes. Imports from the United States in 2023 increased by 32 percent, reaching USD 77 million and returning to the pre-war per capita level. Due to the war, domestic catch remains limited, as fishing in the Black Sea and inland water sources is restricted. Continuing gradual recovery in the income level in 2024 is expected to facilitate further import increases.