EU Frozen Raspberry Market Tightens: Supply Constraints and Structural Shift in 2026

Introduction

The European frozen raspberry market is entering 2026 under significant pressure. After a challenging 2025 season, supply constraints have become increasingly evident, driving prices to record levels and reshaping the structure of sourcing across the region.

According to market observations and industry experts, the situation reflects not just a temporary disruption, but a deeper shift in supply dynamics within the European Union.

Severe Supply Constraints Following a Weak 2025 Season

The 2025 raspberry harvest across key European producing countries has fallen short of expectations.

  • In Poland, production showed only a slight increase compared to 2024, but remained significantly below historical averages.
  • Compared to previous years, output was still notably lower than both 2023 levels and the five-year average.
  • In Serbia, one of Europe’s key suppliers, production dropped sharply due to adverse weather conditions, including severe frost early in the season.

As a result, the EU market is facing clear limitations in raw material availability.

Rising Dependence on Imports

To compensate for domestic shortages, the European Union has increasingly relied on imports.

  • Ukraine has emerged as the largest supplier of frozen raspberries to the EU market.
  • Imports from China and Chile have also increased, although their overall share remains relatively limited.

This marks a notable shift in the supply structure of the European market, with external sourcing playing a more critical role than in previous years.

Strong Demand Despite Limited Supply

Interestingly, export activity from Poland indicates that demand remains strong despite constrained production.

  • Between July and November 2025, Poland exported approximately 22,700 tons of frozen raspberries.
  • This represents a significant increase compared to the same period in the previous year.

The growth in export volumes, despite limited production, highlights robust international demand for frozen raspberries.

In addition:

  • Poland significantly increased sales to Serbia, even though Serbia itself remains a net exporter.
  • Growth in exports to Germany was comparatively modest.

Prices Reach Record Highs

Supply shortages have pushed prices to historically high levels.

  • Prices for Polish frozen raspberries (IQF, Class I) rose by nearly one-third year-on-year.
  • Serbian raspberry prices increased by approximately 70%.
  • At the beginning of 2025, prices exceeded €7/kg for high-quality IQF raspberries (minimum 95% whole fruit), reaching record levels.

These elevated prices reflect the tight balance between supply and demand across the EU market.

Low Inventory Levels Signal Continued Pressure

Current market conditions suggest that inventory levels entering the 2026 season are relatively low.

This implies:

  • Continued upward pressure on prices in the near term
  • Increased sensitivity to supply disruptions
  • Stronger reliance on upcoming harvest performance

Outlook: Weather Will Determine Market Direction

Looking ahead to the 2026/27 season, the market remains highly uncertain.

Key factors include:

  • Weather conditions in Poland and Serbia
  • The scale of the upcoming harvest
  • Stability of supply from emerging exporting countries

While tight supply may sustain high prices, any recovery in production could introduce volatility and potential price corrections.

Conclusion

The European frozen raspberry market is undergoing a structural transition.

Traditional supply sources are under pressure

Imports are playing an increasingly important role

Prices remain elevated amid constrained supply

In this environment, supply chain reliability, diversification, and adaptability will become critical for all market participants.

If you are exploring supply opportunities or partnerships in the European frozen berry market, feel free to connect with us for further insights and collaboration.

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