REUTERS
At the same time, crop output may increase by 7.3%, while livestock production may shrink by 0.8%.
Director of the National Scientific Center "Institute of Agrarian Economics" Yuriy Lupenko says Ukraine in 2018 may boost the gross agricultural production by 5.1% against last year's figures, up to UAH 261.8 billion (US$9.4 billion).
"According to estimates by scientists at the Institute of Agrarian Economics, which were updated to reflect the current dynamics, the gross agricultural output in 2018 will increase by 5.1% against last year's figures, to UAH 261.8 billion at constant prices of 2010," the Center's press service quoted Lupenko as saying on November 16.
According to the expert, gross crop production is projected at UAH 192.6 billion ($6.9 billion), which is 7.3% more than last year.
In particular, production of grain, leguminous crops, oilseeds, maize, rice, potatoes, vegetables, fruit, berries, and grapes is expected to rise in 2018. At the same time, the output of wheat, rye, peas, buckwheat, oats, millet, sorghum, and sugar beet may decrease this year.
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The scientists say gross livestock production is expected to reach UAH 69.2 billion ($2.5 billion), which is 0.8% down from 2017.
As reported, the output of poultry meat and eggs will grow slightly.
Lupenko also says the production of meat of cattle, pigs, sheep and goats, as well as milk and wool may decrease in 2018.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Ukraine's agricultural production dropped by 2.7% in 2017 against 2016.
In particular, agricultural enterprises reduced production by 3.9%, while private farmers' output shrank by 1.2%.