Hazelnuts are not just a fashion trend in the global food industry. It is a profitable crop with high export potential, and demand for it is only growing. Over the past two years, the price of hazelnuts has increased by 15%, and has now stabilised at \$6782 per tonne of hulled kernel. This is a signal for Ukrainian farmers, especially those in Odesa region, which has exceptional agro-climatic conditions for growing nut crops.

📈 GLOBAL TRENDS - TIME TO ACT

🌍 The world continues to consume more and more hazelnuts, especially in the confectionery and healthy food segments.
🇺🇦 Ukraine already has 8,000 hectares of industrial hazelnut orchards and could reach 14-16,000 tonnes of harvest in the coming years.

But despite this, we still import 4,000 tonnes of hazelnuts in their shells every year, mainly from Turkey, Georgia and Azerbaijan.

📍 WHY ODESA REGION?

Odesa region has unique opportunities for the development of hazelnut orchards:

✅ Suitable mild climate with a sufficient number of sunny days
✅ Irrigation potential in the southern regions
✅ Free areas for laying perennial plantings
✅ Ports and logistics for export are nearby

В in the face of climate changeHazelnuts are a less vulnerable crop than cereals or sunflower. And given the stable demand on foreign markets, it is also an economic safety cushion for farmers.

⚠️ CHALLENGES TO CONSIDER

❗️ Hazelnuts are a long-term investment: the first harvest in 3-4 years, full fruiting in 6-8 years.
❗️ Professional agronomy is required - the right selection of varieties, care, pruning.
❗️ Post-harvest processing and certification for export are important.
❗️ We need to learn to cooperate - it is easier to enter European markets as a group.

💡 TIPS FOR FARMERS IN ODESA REGION

🌱 If you have 2+ hectares, it's worth planting a hazelnut garden.
🌱 Start with varieties that are adapted to the south (for example, Barcelona, Halle, Cosford).
🌱 Use drip irrigation - this will significantly increase the yield.
🌱 Plan for processing - a nut in a shell is valued less than a kernel.
🌱 Become a part of industry associations, such as the NGO "Agrarians of Odesa Region" - there you can get knowledge, partnerships and market access.
🌱 And most importantly, think 10 years ahead. This is the culture of the future!

🔚 Hazelnuts are a chance. A chance to turn Odesa region to become Ukraine's No. 1 nut-producing region, replace imports, gain foreign exchange earnings and strengthen the agricultural sector. 🌰

The world already appreciates hazelnuts. And it's time for hazelnuts from Odesa region to become part of the global market.
Мисли глобально, саджай локально! 💪