Blockade of Greater Odesa ports threatens half of Ukraine’s agricultural exports

The blockade of Greater Odesa ports could result in the loss of at least half of Ukraine’s agricultural export potential. During the first 21 days of September, Ukraine exported 1.6 mln tons of agricultural products — only 43% of the volume that could have been shipped with fully functioning logistics.

The main burden is now shifting to alternative routes. Around 45% of agricultural cargo is transported by rail, another 45% through the Danube region, while road transport accounts for about 10%.

However, the capacity of these routes is limited. In particular, further expansion of the Danube route would require significant investment and additional resources to handle larger cargo flows.

As a result, the blockade of Greater Odesa ports is increasing pressure on rail, Danube and road logistics. For exporters, this means higher transportation costs, more complicated routes and longer delivery times.

Export restrictions also create risks for the working capital of agricultural companies and could increase pressure on domestic agricultural commodity prices as supplies accumulate within the country.

Tags: Ukraine, blocking ports, Big Odesa