In the first 20 days of September, agricultural exports increased by almost one and a half times despite port restrictions

Ukrainian agricultural producers increased exports in September compared to August, however the limited operation of seaports still creates serious risks for the agricultural sector.

In the first 20 days of September, the volume of agricultural exports reached 44% of the potential level given current production. In August this indicator was about 30%.

The results were reported by the Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food Taras Vysotsky during the business dialogue “Anti-crisis protocols and logistical diplomacy”. The information was published by the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine.

“The situation in September is better than in August, but it remains difficult. Business together with the state is expanding alternative logistics capacities, and these measures are already producing results.”

Available alternative routes allow exporting at least half of the required volume of agricultural products. At the same time, their physical capacities are limited, and the high cost of transportation makes exporting some goods unprofitable.

Despite problems with external deliveries, Ukraine‘s food security remains stable. Approximately 25–30% of produced goods are directed to domestic consumption, while about 70% are traditionally exported.

“There will be no shortage of food or famine. There is no basis for that. Even under difficult conditions, the agricultural sector will continue to function.”

In an unfavorable scenario, Ukraine‘s annual agricultural exports could fall by 30 million tonnes. Potential losses in export revenue are estimated at up to 10 billion dollars.

Sowing of winter crops is proceeding according to plan. About 1 million hectares have been sown with winter rapeseed — this corresponds to the planned area. Farmers also continue sowing winter wheat.

In the Mykolaiv region, the reduction in export opportunities has already affected purchase prices. Wheat and barley have fallen in price from 9–11 thousand to 5–7 thousand hryvnias per tonne. The cause was Russian strikes on port infrastructure and damage to terminals.

The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas called for an end to Russian attacks on Ukrainian grain exports through the Black Sea. She explained that this is necessary to restore shipments and prevent a deterioration of the global food situation.

Earlier we wrote:

• Fire engulfed 25 thousand tons of oil after a strike on a port terminal
• “Two strikes — and there is no maritime logistics”: Russian broadcast threatens the ports of Mykolaiv and Odesa
• Over 50 attacks on Ukrainian ports: among the Russians’ targets are the ports “Olvia” and “Nika-Tera”
• New temporary routes announced for commercial vessels going to/from Ukraine
• The “grain deal” was extended for another 120 days – Ukraine proposed to include the ports of Mykolaiv