Ukraine Sees Net Positive Growth in Sole Proprietor Registrations
In the first quarter of 2026, Ukraine recorded a net increase in the number of registered sole proprietorships (known as FOPs). A total of 63,920 new businesses were opened, while 52,623 were closed, resulting in a net gain of 11,297 FOPs. This marks a turnaround from 2024, when closures outpaced openings—74,347 new registrations versus 76,565 closures. The trend continued to be challenging in 2025, with 106,199 FOPs shutting down compared to just 62,776 new ones.
Sectors Driving the FOP Surge
The strongest growth in Q1 2026 came from non-store retail trade, which saw 2,527 new FOP registrations. Education followed closely with 1,899 new entrepreneurs. Other sectors with notable increases include:
- Consulting (1,230 new FOPs)
- Information services (1,033 new FOPs)
- Real estate rental (862 new FOPs)
Despite the overall positive trend, traditional market and street-stall retail suffered the biggest losses, with 2,531 entrepreneurs closing their businesses. Regionally, Kyiv led the way with a net increase of 1,826 new FOPs, followed by Lviv Oblast (+1,651) and Dnipropetrovsk Oblast (+1,450). The largest decline occurred in Donetsk Oblast, where 479 FOPs closed. Decreases were also recorded in Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, and Sumy Oblasts.
Data provided by Ukrinform.
These figures point to a revival of entrepreneurial activity in Ukraine after several difficult years marked by significant business challenges. The net positive registration balance may signal renewed confidence in entrepreneurship—a key factor for the country’s economic recovery. However, despite the overall growth, certain sectors like traditional retail continue to struggle, likely reflecting shifts in consumer preferences and regional economic conditions that still require targeted support.
The recent surge in sole proprietorship registrations highlights a significant shift in Ukraine's business environment. As new entrepreneurs emerge, understanding the broader implications of these changes is essential. For a deeper look at the evolving landscape and insights into the wealthiest individuals benefiting from this growth, explore how many new sole proprietors have joined the ranks and who made it to the top. Check out the full details here.