Dialogue with farmers and support from FAO: how the government helps the agricultural sector of Mykolaiv region

Vitaliy Koval, Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, paid a working visit to Mykolaiv region. The main issues discussed were the restoration of irrigation systems, the development of the processing industry and the need to increase the limits on soft loans.

This was reported by the press service of the Mykolaiv Regional State Administration.

During the visit, the Minister met with representatives of the agricultural sector: producers, processors and farmers. According to Vitaliy Koval, constructive dialogues between local authorities and agribusiness are being established in the frontline Mykolaiv region.

Our task is to hear regional issues and find common solutions," Vitaliy Koval emphasized.

An important part of the trip was the signing of a memorandum of cooperation between Ukraine and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). As part of the support for Ukrainian farmers, FAO representatives handed over two sets of equipment for loading and unloading grain sleeves to farmers in the southern regions.

According to Mohammed Azouka, Acting Head of the FAO Office in Ukraine, this is not only a critical resource for short-term operations, but also a long-term asset that will help Ukrainian farmers reduce grain losses and simplify its transportation.

In addition, Vitaliy Koval visited one of the largest processing enterprises in the region, familiarized himself with its facilities and discussed the prospects for further development of the industry.

The Minister summarized that farmers have remained working on this land, kept their enterprises and continue to move forward. He called on them to be active, proactive and cooperative in order to strengthen the Ukrainian agricultural sector.

In 2025, Mykolaiv region was ranked first in terms of lending to agricultural enterprises. In total, 14 enterprises received assistance worth over UAH 300 million. The "Affordable Loans 5-7-9" program was used by 10 companies from Mykolaiv region, which received UAH 40.7 million.

In 2024, the agro-industrial complex of Mykolaiv region received a record state support of UAH 459 million, which is more than eight times higher than in 2023 - UAH 55 million. Increased funding and the introduction of innovative approaches have contributed to the stable development of the agricultural sector, which is a strategically important area of food security for both the region and the country.

Анна Бальчінос