Carp is becoming unaffordable: budget fish is disappearing from shelves and is only available to the wealthy

Ukrainians are once again in for an unpleasant surprise on the market: fish is rapidly becoming more expensive. This will especially affect buyers who are accustomed to purchasing carp or herring, as their cost has increased significantly. Even so-called “budget” fish is becoming less and less affordable for many families.

Over the past month, the average price for live carp has increased from 149 to 168 hryvnias per kilogram. For gutted fresh carp, you will have to pay approximately 213 hryvnias per kilogram, which is almost 20 hryvnias more than in April. A similar situation is observed with herring: the lightly salted product has increased in price from 192 to 214 hryvnias per kilogram.

However, it is worth noting that not all fish are becoming more expensive: for example, the price of mackerel has decreased, and it now costs 198 hryvnias per kilogram. However, experts note that this is more likely a temporary decrease. Prices may remain high throughout the summer, and this situation is still difficult to improve.

The main reasons for the increase in fish prices are diverse, and all hurt consumers. Firstly, it is due to seasonality: in the spring, fishermen cannot catch many fish due to the spawning ban, which reduces the supply on the market. Secondly, the exchange rate also affects prices because imported fish is tied to the dollar and euro. Additionally, the costs of fuel, electricity, and feed are increasing, which also leads to higher prices. And, of course, war and pollution of water bodies limit the volume of fish products.

Despite a 22% growth in catches this year, the situation with prices in stores has not improved yet. Carp, silver carp, grass carp, pike perch, pike, and catfish remain expensive products.

Researchers advise against expecting a price decrease in the coming months. Summer will bring high prices, and stabilization can be expected only in the fall after the ponds are stocked.