Ukraine can export up to 3.5 mln tons of grain per month without deep-sea ports

Ukraine’s historical record for grain exports without using deep-sea Black Sea ports was about 3.5 mln tons per month, and the country could theoretically reach that level again under current conditions. Agriculture Minister Taras Vysotsky said the current shipping situation differs significantly from 2022, as there is no complete blockade and alternative logistics routes remain operational.

According to Vysotsky, Ukraine has significantly expanded its logistics infrastructure over the past few years by developing Danube ports, dry ports, road and rail corridors to the EU, and increasing its fleet of grain railcars.

However, alternative routes cannot fully replace deep-sea ports because they have lower capacity and higher transportation costs, increasing expenses for exporters and farmers. Nevertheless, they make it possible to maintain grain exports even under difficult conditions.

The minister also noted that Ukraine currently has sufficient storage capacity for the expected harvest. However, if export delays continue, the country could require additional storage capacity for 10–12 mln tons of grain.

Vysotsky said the government plans to seek support from international partners to secure additional grain storage bags if needed. He added that Ukraine is now far better prepared logistically and technically than it was in 2022, although there is still no full alternative to deep-sea ports in the medium term.

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