Ukraine: Tree Nuts Annual
Ukraine is forecast to produce around 100,000 metric tons (MT) of walnuts in marketing year (MY) 2016/17 sliding below MY 2015/16 production levels due to weather conditions. MY 2015/16 production is itself raised to 115,000 MT, 13,000 MT above USDA official forecasts. Exports are expected to continue to account for over half of Ukrainian walnut production even though their volume is forecast to decline 74,520 MT in MY2015/16 to 59,200 MT in MY2016/17. MY 2015/16 exports are forecast 11,000 MT higher for 2015/16 than USDA official forecasts. An expected decrease in domestic consumption will further boost exports. The European Union and the Middle East are expected to remain major markets for Ukrainian walnut exports.