SMALL AGROFORESTRY FARMS OF UKRAINE IN WAR CONDITIONS: STRUCTURAL BARRIERS OF THE VALUE ADDED CHAIN AND ADAPTATION STRATEGIES

Abstract

Restoring food systems in post-conflict and crisis contexts shows that short, local value chains – typical for small family producers – are the most resilient because they are less dependent on centralized infrastructure and external markets. Based on a survey of 63 farming enterprises, this paper identifies the main structural barriers in the value chain and documents how small agroforestry farms have adapted under wartime conditions. The survey was carried out via the SurveyMonkey platform from January to August 2025 through farmer networks, the research team’s professional contacts, and WWF-Ukraine communication channels. Quantitative data were processed using frequency distribution with calculation of respondent shares for each answer option. Responses to 35 questions of various types were grouped into substantive categories. The study found that the principal challenges and barriers in the value chain are labor shortages and resource deficits related to lack of seed, fertilizers, and plant protection products, compounded by high prices. Financial obstacles – limited access to credit and shortages of working capital – pose significant risks. Despite their adaptive capacity, farmers face structural barriers tied to market access, processing infrastructure, and regulatory conditions. Analysis of relationships among farm size, production practices, processing, and marketing showed that production scale largely determines opportunities for product diversification, access to processing infrastructure, and integration into formal market channels. Adaptation and development strategies for small agroforestry farms are outlined; the resilience of their food value chains depends strongly on flexibility, diversified production, and strong links to local markets. An important adaptation pathway is moving toward on farm processing – shifting from selling raw materials to producing finished products – which increases product added value. Strengthening the role of agroforestry farms in building resilient food systems and supporting post war recovery in Ukraine requires enhanced institutional support and improved value chain infrastructure.