In Ukraine, a striking 93% of agricultural exports have made their way to global markets via maritime and river routes since August 2023. This substantial figure was relayed by the country’s Infrastructure Ministry on February 23rd.
The key avenues for these exports have been the ports situated within and near Odesa, as well as those on the Danube River. Over 30 million metric tonnes of agricultural goods have traversed through these channels following the establishment of a novel sea corridor. This development occurred after Russia unilaterally pulled out from the Black Sea grain agreement.
Initially, the corridor’s purpose was to facilitate the departure of ships that had been anchored in Ukrainian waters since February 2022. In time, this pathway has evolved into an essential conduit for the exportation of Ukrainian commodities like grain and metal, despite continued Russian hostilities and risks such as naval mines.
According to data from the Infrastructure Ministry, from the time the corridor opened, 854 vessels set sail for 42 destinations, ferrying 26 million metric tonnes of freight. Out of this cargo, Ukrainian agricultural products accounted for over 18 million metric tonnes.
Oleksandr Kubrakov, the Infrastructure Minister, noted that there were export figures of 6.8 million tons in December and slight decrease to 6.7 million tons in January. He remains optimistic that February’s numbers will not trail those of previous months, despite the month’s concise span.
Kubrakov also highlighted plans to boost agricultural exports through the Danube in an effort to circumvent disruptions at the border with Poland, where blockages of Ukrainian exports have occurred.
The border issue intensified in early February when Polish farmers resumed protests over Ukrainian agricultural imports and their dissensions with the EU’s Green Deal.
On February 20th, the tensions heightened as some demonstrators obstructed railway tracks with Ukrainian grain and displayed anti-Ukrainian banners. Further, on February 23rd, protesters disrupted the transportation of Ukrainian oilseed destined for Germany by disposing of it on the tracks, as reported by Ukrainian Railways.
In response to the difficulties faced at the Polish border, the Infrastructure Ministry has been working on a new export route through the Danube, which Minister Kubrakov described as a more dependable option compared to overland exports into Poland.
FAQ Section
- What percentage of Ukrainian agricultural exports are transported by sea and river?
93% of Ukrainian agricultural exports are transported through the ports of Odesa and on the Danube River.
- How many metric tonnes have been exported since August 2023?
Over 30 million metric tonnes of agricultural products have been exported.
- What challenges are Ukrainian exports facing at the border with Poland?
Polish farmers have been protesting the import of Ukrainian agricultural products, which has included dumping Ukrainian grain and displaying anti-Ukrainian signage.
- What is Ukraine’s plan to deal with the export issues at the Polish border?
Ukraine plans to create a new export route through the Danube River to bypass the border issues with Poland.
Conclusion
The figures highlight the resilience and adaptability of Ukrainian agriculture amidst the ongoing conflict and geopolitical tensions. Despite these massive hurdles, including the disruption of traditional land routes due to Polish protests, Ukrainian exports continue to find pathways to international markets. The development of a new Danube route showcases Ukraine’s commitment to overcoming barriers and ensuring the flow of its agricultural exports, which is crucial not only for its economy but for global food security as well.
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