Due to Russia’s attacks, Ukraine reduced grain exports to 4 million tons per month
As a result of intensified missile and drone attacks by Russia, Ukraine can now export only about 4 million tons of grain per month instead of the previously planned 6 million tons. These restrictions are due to the loss of part of the export capacity in key Black Sea ports.
According to Reuters, citing the Ukrainian Agrarian Council, Russian attacks systematically damage port infrastructure, the transportation and logistics chain, and grain terminals. About 90% of Ukraine’s grain exports pass through the ports of the Odesa region, which are vital routes for exporting agricultural products—one of the country’s key sources of foreign currency income.
The loss of part of the export capabilities has also negatively impacted traders, who face issues with purchasing, sales, and product shipments. According to Ukrainian Railways data, the number of grain trucks to Odesa ports in the period from July 2 to July 8 decreased by 11%, and export volumes were reduced by 17% compared to the previous week.
These changes have also affected the operations of major exporters. Kernel, one of Ukraine’s leading grain exporters, suspended operations at the port of Chornomorsk due to threats. Four out of the 13 large grain terminals have stopped purchasing grain, affecting the market. As noted by expert Bohdan Kostetskyi from Barva Invest, the ports have lost about a third of their grain storage capacity—around 2.5 million tons per month.
Ukraine is an important player in the global grain market, providing approximately 6% of wheat exports and 11% of corn exports. Further attacks may exacerbate the situation, affecting global prices for these commodities.
Recall that on July 11, as a result of a Russian attack on the port infrastructure of the Odesa region, two people were killed, and two others were injured. A civilian trade vessel and trucks were also damaged. In response, shipowners are less willing to enter Ukrainian ports, leading to increased freight costs.
| Indicator | Before attacks | After attacks |
|---|---|---|
| Grain export | 6 million tons | 4 million tons |
| Number of grain trucks | – | -11% |
| Export volume | – | -17% |
