In early March, Ukraine recorded a noticeable increase in diesel fuel prices, which is a key energy resource for the agricultural sector during spring field operations, ProAgro Group reports.

According to market monitoring data, the average diesel price at Ukrainian filling stations has risen to around UAH 65 per liter, which is more than UAH 2 higher than at the end of February.

In several major fuel retail chains, prices have already reached UAH 68–69 per liter, while premium diesel grades exceed UAH 71 per liter. Overall, prices across different regions currently range from approximately UAH 63.9 to UAH 73.9 per liter, depending on the supplier and region.

Experts link the price increase primarily to developments in global energy markets and escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Such tensions create a so-called “risk premium” in oil markets, which quickly affects fuel prices in Ukraine.

According to fuel market participants, gasoline and diesel prices in Ukraine could increase by another UAH 2–3 per liter in the coming week if geopolitical tensions in the Middle East persist. In case of further escalation, fuel prices could continue rising over the next month.

Diesel fuel is one of the key cost components of spring field operations. Industry experts estimate that fuel costs may account for 10–15% of total crop production expenses.

Therefore, higher diesel prices ahead of the sowing campaign mean increased costs per hectare for farmers, additional pressure on production margins and the need to adjust fieldwork budgets. Farms with large land banks and those operating in regions with more complex logistics may feel the strongest impact.

Despite rising fuel prices, experts do not expect disruptions to the sowing campaign. However, higher fuel costs could reduce the overall profitability of the season for farmers, especially amid high expenses for fertilizers, logistics and energy.